Should You Call a Dentist If You Have Toothache?

A woman with a toothacheA toothache refers to the pain that a person feels in and around their teeth and jaws. It is often the result of tooth decay, sensitive teeth, gingivitis, or breakdown of tooth enamel. And if a toothache is not treated, the pulp inside the tooth could become infected. So, a toothache could also mean the presence of a dental infection.

Should You See the Dentist If You Have Toothache?

A person should see a dentist if their tooth pain persists, have bleeding gums, redness occurs around their gums, inflammation increases, swelling occurs around their jaw or face, or they are feeling sick due to tooth pain. Also, if a person had recent trauma to their mouth or face, they should see the dentist.

Here is when a person should see a dentist if they have toothache:

Tooth Pain Persists

Persistent tooth pain is often the result of tooth decay. Once tooth decay reaches the nerves inside the tooth, the person will experience a persistent toothache. The infection can spread into the gum tissue and the jawbone surrounding the decayed tooth. A dentist can help stop the infection from spreading.

A Sudden or Severe Toothache

Do not ignore a sudden or severe toothache! It could be a sign of an infection or tooth abscess. A tooth abscess occurs due to an injury, prior dental work, or untreated dental cavity. The infection can lead to bone loss in the jaw, and it can spread into the bloodstream. A dentist can drain the tooth abscess and get rid of the infection.

Tooth Sensitivity Worsens

Having sensitive teeth can lead to severe tooth pain. Sensitive teeth are usually the result of exposed tooth roots, cracked teeth, tooth decay, or worn tooth enamel. The person will experience sharp, temporary pain inside their teeth while eating, brushing, or even drinking. However, if teeth sensitivity worsens, they need to see a dentist.

See a Dentist to Treat the Tooth Pain

Home remedies can provide temporary relief for tooth pain. However, they might not stop the spread of the infection. Seeing a dentist in Albuquerque can help treat the underlying cause of the toothache and stop the spread of the infection throughout the body. It is best to see a dentist to treat the cause of the tooth pain.

The Various Dental Emergencies That A Dentist Can Treat

Every once in a while during your life, you’re probably going to have a dental emergency. These are things that happen to your teeth or gums that need to be treated to right away. Sometimes you’ll discover that your dentist is closed for the day or weekend, and you can’t get in to see him at all. Other times your dentist may be open, but he’s booked for the day and you may need to wait a few hours.

Knowing what is a dental emergency is paramount, as it will help you divert your panic and stress into either oblivion or into getting you the help you need.

Chipped Teeth Or Teeth Falling Out

Sometimes those dreams we have about our teeth falling out actually come true. Breaking your teeth or having them suddenly fall out on you can definitely constitute as a dental emergency. While you wait to be able to see a professional, keep your tooth stored where it will be safe and stop any bleeding.

Infections

A gum or tooth infection usually manifests in localized pain, puss seeping from your gums, massive swelling, and other symptoms. This is an emergency if the pain is really terrible or you have reason to believe it’s linked to another dental emergency. Rinse your mouth with hydrogen peroxide up to twice a day until you can see a doctor to get some antibiotics and to have your issue taken care of.

Lost Dental Work

Sometimes a filling or crown may fall out of your mouth. In the case of a crown, try applying something like Polydent until your dentist can use permanent cement. For fillings, rinse the area out and be careful to not get food in it.

Dental emergencies are never fun, but treated with care you can save yourself some extra hours until you get in to see your dentist.

If you’re having a dental emergency in Albuquerque call our office immediately so we can schedule you for an appointment right away!