In this article, we discuss the most common causes of tooth pain and when it is time to see a dentist. Also, we discuss situations when you need to schedule an appointment with an emergency dentist immediately.
Common Causes of Tooth Pain and When It’s Time to See a Dentist
The most common causes of tooth pain are cavities and tooth infection. While cavities might be less urgent than infection of the tooth’s pulp, a toothache is always a sign that you have to see a dentist as soon as possible. Let us look at the differences in symptoms and treatment methods between cavities and active infection of the inner pulp.
Cavity Symptoms and Treatment
Cavities are small holes or dark spots in a tooth’s enamel caused by bacteria. Typically, cavities do not cause severe pain, but you might still experience the following symptoms:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks
- Sensitivity to sugar
- Pain when chewing or touching the tooth
Cavities are not an emergency, but we still do not recommend delaying your appointment, as they can quickly turn into an inner pulp infection. While cavities are treated with a simple filling procedure, more severe infections will likely require costly treatments such as root canal therapy and dental crown placement.
Tooth Infection Symptoms and Treatment
When infection affects the inner pulp of the tooth, you are likely to experience the following symptoms:
- Persistent pain
- Severe sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks
- Pain when touching the tooth, chewing, or brushing
- Persistent unpleasant taste in the mouth or bad breath
- Swelling in the gum around the infected tooth
- Changes in the color of the infected tooth (may become brown, gray, or black)
- Swelling in the jaw on the side of the infected tooth
The severity and number of these symptoms might vary. Still, if even one of these symptoms is present, we recommend making an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible, preferably within two to three days. Tooth infection can spread quickly and turn into a tooth abscess, or it can affect the surrounding gum tissue, jawbone, and teeth. Also, if the infection is not treated in time, it can lead to tooth extraction.
While you are waiting for your appointment, follow these rules:
- Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the infected tooth is located
- Maintain rigorous oral hygiene, but be gentle when brushing and flossing around the infected tooth
- Rinse your mouth with saltwater 3 to 4 times a day after meals to reduce bacteria
- Manage pain with over-the-counter painkillers
Tooth infection is typically treated with root canal therapy. During this procedure, your doctor removes the infected pulp, cleans the canals, and then fills the tooth with special biocompatible material. Often, a dental crown is placed on the tooth after root canal therapy to reinforce its structure and protect it from further damage.
When Should You Go to an Emergency Dentist
Signs that you need to go to an emergency dentist right away include:
- Severe toothache
- Moderate to severe swelling in the gums, jaw, and face
- Pimples or cysts on the gums around the infected tooth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fever
Severe tooth infection or abscess can still be treated with root canal therapy, provided that the tooth is structurally intact. In some cases, however, the tooth might be extracted.
Treat Toothache at Absolute Family Dentistry
If you notice symptoms of cavities or experience a toothache, do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist at Absolute Family Dentistry today. We are looking forward to helping you preserve your oral health.
