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We've all experienced tooth pain at some point, but knowing when it's serious enough to warrant immediate attention can be confusing. "When is Tooth Pain an Emergency?" is a question many of us grapple with when faced with dental discomfort. Whether it's a dull ache or a sharp, stabbing pain, understanding the difference between regular toothaches and urgent situations is crucial.
In this blog, we'll explore the signs and symptoms that indicate a dental emergency and what you can do to alleviate the pain and prevent further complications.
A toothache is a pain or discomfort that originates from a tooth or the surrounding gum and jaw area. It can range in intensity from mild to severe and may be continuous or intermittent.
Toothaches usually occur when a tooth experiences significant pressure or trauma, often from biting into sharp or hot objects.
This pressure or trauma results in pain and irritation in the tooth and jaw area, leading to swelling or exposure to bacteria.
Chewing on hard substances wears down teeth, exposing the root. This exposure can lead to infection or irritation by bacteria, causing swelling and pain around the jaw and teeth.
Inadequate daily brushing allows bacteria to thrive in poorly cleaned areas, exposing teeth and gums to disease-causing bacteria that cause decay and pain.
Impacted teeth can cause intense pain and damage. They can lead to severe damage affecting quality of life and may cause decay and alignment issues. Addressing further damage caused by impacted teeth can help alleviate pain and restore normalcy.
Pain from chipped and broken teeth is common among both children and adults. Beyond affecting oral hygiene and eating habits, many individuals also experience pain and discomfort. Various factors can cause chipped teeth, including impact from a hard surface or a fall.
Dealing with a toothache promptly is crucial to prevent serious damage. But how do you know "when is tooth pain an emergency?"
The CDC advises that you seek help within 24 hours of a dental emergency. Important factors to consider are- the intensity of the pain, how much damage there is, and your overall health.
If you're experiencing severe, throbbing pain for more than 12 hours if your teeth are bleeding, or if you're running a fever or feeling chills, don't wait—see your dentist right away. And if you're unsure what to do in an emergency, reach out to your dentist's office for guidance as soon as possible!
How you handle a dental emergency can greatly affect your treatment's success. Here are some tips:
In a toothache emergency, some may feel inclined to try self-dental treatment. However, this isn't recommended as it can lead to more problems, such as spreading infection and worsening pain. Instead, opt for applying cold water or ice packs on your cheekbones to help reduce swelling in the affected area.
Understanding “When is tooth pain an emergency?” is vital for maintaining oral health. Whether it's persistent throbbing or sudden sharp pain, knowing when to seek professional help can prevent further complications. Don't hesitate to reach out to your dentist if you're experiencing severe tooth pain. Your oral health is too important to ignore.
If you're experiencing tooth pain and suspect it may be an emergency, don't delay seeking professional help. Book an appointment online with Springhill Dental Health Center, Mobile, AL. New patients can call (251) 265-7808, and all others can call (251) 343-1521.
If you're experiencing severe, persistent pain, bleeding, fever, or swelling, it's likely a dental emergency.
It's best not to wait if you're experiencing severe pain or other signs of a dental emergency. Contact your dentist as soon as possible.
If you can't reach your dentist immediately, consider visiting an emergency dental clinic or seeking medical attention if the pain is severe.
My visit was incredible. I had my “All on Four” appliances cleaned, and it was a painless and thorough experience. Dr. Scott and all his staff are very friendly. During the cleaning, Mary was gentle and let me know everything she was doing and how it would feel. She gave me tips on how to clean my implants/appliances better and gave me a small brush to do the underside more effectively. Dr. Scott and Mary suggest cleanings take place every 3 months so I will be back in December.
Dr. Byron Scott is a highly-trained and accomplished dentist. He attended The University of Alabama School of Dentistry and subsequently completed numerous Advanced Studies and Trainings. Dr. Scott is Board-Certified by The Academy of General Dentistry and has earned Mastership status (MAGD), an honor shared by only 1% of dentists. He has numerous memberships and associations, including Diplomate status with The American Board of Oral Implantology (D-ABOI) and The International Congress of Oral Implantologists (D-ICOI). Overall, Dr. Scott has dedicated his life and career to helping patients improve their oral health through expert dentistry. His goal is to help each patient keep their smile healthy, attractive, and comfortable for the duration of their lifetime.
