Tooth pain can show up out of nowhere and make it hard for you to eat, sleep, or focus. Fortunately, an emergency dentist can find the cause of the pain, treat the problem, and help get things back under control. Whether the pain comes from a cavity, a cracked tooth, an infection, or a dental injury, immediate care from a dental professional can prevent the problem from worsening.
A toothache can come from a few different problems. Common root causes of a toothache include:
A tooth can also hurt after an injury, particularly if the damage reaches the inner part of the tooth.
Not every toothache needs same-day care. However, there are some symptoms that patients should not ignore. Severe pain, facial swelling, heavy bleeding, a knocked-out permanent tooth, major dental trauma, or signs of infection call for prompt attention. An emergency dentist can also help when pain is strong enough to disrupt the patient’s normal daily activities or does not settle with basic home care. Early treatment can prevent a small dental problem from becoming much harder to treat in the future, increasing the risk of tooth extraction.
The first step is a dental exam. An emergency dentist will examine the painful tooth, the nearby gums, and the surrounding area. X-rays may also help reveal decay, an infection, a crack, or damage below the gumline.
Keep in mind that tooth pain does not always come from the spot that hurts. A problem in one tooth can sometimes cause pain that feels like it comes from another area. Finding the source helps the dentist choose the right treatment instead of simply covering up the symptoms.
The treatment depends on what is causing the pain. Common options include:
A few simple steps can help until patients go in for their appointment. Rinse the mouth gently with warm water and use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek if swelling is present. Over-the-counter pain medicine can help when taken according to the label and any personal medical guidance. That said, patients should avoid applying aspirin directly to the tooth or gums, as it can irritate the surrounding tissue. Very hot, cold, sweet, or hard foods may also worsen the pain.
Tooth pain usually has a cause, and that cause will generally not disappear on its own. An emergency dentist can identify the problem, ease the pain, and recommend treatment that protects the tooth and surrounding tissues. When severe pain, swelling, or trauma occurs, dental care at Shari A Witkoff, DMD can make a substantial difference in your oral health. Schedule an appointment at our Coral Gables office today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.drwitkoff.com or call Shari A Witkoff, DMD at (305) 460-9561 for an appointment in our Coral Gables office.
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