Tooth pain can manifest in a few different ways. Some people experience theirs as a dull ache, while others may have it be very sharp. Regardless, it can be uncomfortable to deal with, but many people wonder if they necessarily need urgent oral care. Can it be a dental emergency? Keep reading to learn some causes of it and when to know it’s time to call your dentist right away.
What Causes Tooth Pain?
The exact cause of tooth pain can stem from many things. The only way to know which is true for you is by scheduling a consultation with your dentist. Here are some possible culprits:
- Tooth decay or infection
- Worn-out teeth where the roots are exposed
- Damage, such as a crack or chip
- Impacted teeth, such as your wisdom teeth, not erupting fully
So, Is It a Dental Emergency?
In general, it’s best to visit your dentist right away if you have any sort of dental pain. All the scenarios above can’t get better on their own. That means that any decay or infection will continue to worsen. They can spread to your nearby teeth and gums, causing a bigger headache than before!
When it comes to your smile, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Even if you think that it’s not a big deal, calling your dental office can help ensure that nothing is awry. By speaking with their front desk team, you can even learn whether they would recommend seeing you right away or in the near future. They might want to schedule you immediately if you are experiencing:
- Severe tooth pain that is worsening
- You have swelling and a fever alongside your discomfort
- There is visible damage to the tooth
- You have intense sensitivity to hot and cold foods
How Can I Get Relief Until I Visit My Dentist?
Once you get your appointment set up, you may wonder what you can do about your tooth pain in the moment. Your practice will likely give you some advice, but you can take some over-the-counter medication to give yourself some relief. An ice pack for 20-minute intervals might also be helpful!
Keep in mind that these are just temporary solutions. Only your dentist can give you a permanent fix that helps solve the problem. In the end, any dental pain you experience may be reason enough to call your provider. It’s better to be wary than wait too long before serious complications occur.
About the Practice?
At Columbia Healthy Smiles, you benefit from a husband-and-wife dentist duo. We are dedicated to helping the community feel their best through their dental emergencies. While these situations can creep up suddenly, our team will see you as soon as possible to get you the relief you deserve. If you are dealing with tooth pain, schedule an appointment or call our office at (573) 875-7071.