Did you know that nearly 40% of the population is afraid of going to the dentist?
Unfortunately, this can lead to a large number of complications. For example, their lack of dental care could lead to a dental emergency one day. Although tooth pain is not uncommon, not everybody understands when they should get their toothache checked out.
So, is toothache a dental emergency? Let’s take a look at everything you need to know.
What Causes Toothaches?
Toothaches can be caused by a number of different factors. For example, you might have a tooth that is decaying or you might have an infection.
Or, you may have injured the nerve in the root of the affected tooth (or even the nerve pain adjacent tooth). In some cases, you might even have an abscessed tooth. Although abscesses are rare, they are generally caused by an infection.
If you have an abscess, it is important to seek medical attention right away, as they can be very dangerous.
What Are the Complications Associated With Toothaches?
As you might guess, pain and discomfort are the most common complications associated with toothaches. However, there are other potential complications as well. For example, if you have an infection, it could spread to other parts of your body.
Additionally, if you have an abscessed tooth, the infection could potentially enter your bloodstream and cause a serious condition called sepsis. This condition can be extremely harmful or even fatal if it is not treated promptly.
When Should I See a Dentist For My Toothache?
If you are experiencing moderate to major pain or discomfort, it is always best to err on the side of caution and see your dentist. They will be able to determine the cause of your toothache and recommend the best course of treatment. Otherwise, you might end up making the situation worse.
What Are Some Home Remedies For Toothaches?
If you are experiencing a mild toothache and do not want to see a dentist right away, there are a few things you can do at home to help ease the pain.
For example, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. You can also apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help numb the pain.
When Is a Toothache a Dental Emergency?
Situations that involve uncontrolled bleeding, severe pain, or facial swelling are considered dental emergencies. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should see a dentist right away.
These are indicators that something more serious is going on, and you might need medication or surgery. Although it can be tempting to see if the issue resolves itself on its own, it most likely will not. In most cases, it will simply continue to get worse until you are forced to take action.
How Can I Prevent Toothaches in the Future?
The best way to prevent toothaches is to practice good oral hygiene. This means brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing regularly, and using mouthwash.
If your teeth are sensitive, you should also avoid foods that exacerbate this issue. For example, some people cannot eat ice cream or other cold foods without experiencing pain or discomfort.
Additionally, you should see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. If you have any concerns, be sure to bring them up with your dentist so they can help you address them.
What Should I Look For in a Dentist?
When you are looking for a dentist, you should find someone who has substantial experience in the industry. Similarly, those who are looking for an emergency dentist should work with someone who has handled plenty of situations like yours in the past.
This way, you can be confident that you are receiving the best possible care. It’s always in your best interest to check what other past clients have had to say about working with a particular dentist.
This will go a long way when it comes to providing insight into the care you will receive. However, you should understand that not every review you read online is genuine. When you know how to recognize fake reviews, you can avoid unpleasant surprises that you may have otherwise encountered.
What Is It Like to Work With an Emergency Dentist?
Compared to a conventional dentist, an emergency dentist will usually have extended hours. This is to ensure that they are able to accommodate patients who need urgent care. Similarly, an emergency dentist will likely be more understanding and flexible when it comes to payment options.
You can get the care you need without worrying about how you will pay for it. This is essential to keep in mind, as many people avoid seeking emergency dental care due to the fear of dealing with a financial burden afterward.
As long as you work with a reputable emergency dentist, you shouldn’t encounter any issues in the future.
Dealing With a Dental Emergency Doesn’t Have to Be Difficult
Although handling a dental emergency can be tough, it doesn’t have to be impossible.
As long as you know what to expect and who to work with, you can get the care you need without any issues. Remember — you should see a dentist right away if you are experiencing severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or facial swelling.
Want to learn more about what we can do? Be sure to reach out to us today and see how we can help you.
Recent Comments