How to Tell If a Toothache Is a Dental Emergency

Are you experiencing tooth pain but not sure if it’s an emergency? Toothaches can significantly interfere with your daily life, impacting everything from work and school to sleep and family time. It’s essential to understand when tooth pain indicates a need for immediate dental care. Keep reading as we explore the various types of tooth pain, what they might mean, and which healthcare professionals are best equipped to help you.

3 Types of Non-Urgent Tooth Pain

It’s crucial to visit your dentist promptly if you experience tooth pain to avoid further complications. However, not every toothache necessitates immediate care. Here are some types of tooth pain that are typically not classified as emergencies:

• Constant, dull ache – General mouth pain can arise from various issues, including teeth grinding and gum infections. Let’s take a closer look at these possible causes.
• Flashes of tooth sensitivity –If you experience short tooth sensitivity after eating hot or cold foods, it could be due to a broken filling, cavity, or a small crack in your tooth. It’s important to visit a dentist soon to prevent possible infections.
• Pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth – If you haven’t yet had your wisdom teeth removed, you may experience discomfort in the back of your mouth. This pain could be a sign that your wisdom teeth are impacted or developing improperly. In such situations, extraction of the teeth is often necessary.

3 Types of Urgent Toothaches

While the toothaches discussed previously typically don’t require immediate attention, it’s essential to contact your dentist promptly if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Intense, long-lasting pain –If you have severe tooth pain that lasts more than a day or keeps you from sleeping, it could indicate an infection. It’s crucial to seek dental care right away in these cases.
• Darkening of the tooth –If you see a dark or discolored tooth along with pain, it may indicate nerve damage or injury. This situation requires immediate attention, so it’s important to visit a dentist for an evaluation and treatment.
• Sharp pain when biting down –If you experience sharp pain when biting or chewing, it could indicate an infection around the tooth’s roots. It’s essential to get prompt treatment to prevent losing the tooth.

Toothaches can stem from minor cavities or more serious issues. It’s crucial to reach out to your dentist as soon as you feel any tooth pain. Prompt communication enables them to tackle the problem quickly and restore your oral health!

About the Practice

Residents of Parma Heights can trust Dr. Glenn Shtarkman, Dr. Caroline Salib, and the skilled team at Advanced Dental Center for outstanding dental care. They provide a wide range of high-quality services designed to keep your smile healthy and vibrant. Committed to enhancing and preserving beautiful smiles, they quickly address dental emergencies with thorough examinations and prompt treatments. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, their team will identify the issue and work to restore your smile to its optimal state. To make an appointment or for more information about their emergency services, visit the Advanced Dental Center website or call (440) 885-5354.