Toothache Trouble: Is It a Dental Emergency?

Have you noticed a sharp twinge every time you bite down or a persistent toothache that won’t subside? If so, you might be wondering what’s causing the problem and whether you need to call your dentist. Many patients hesitate to schedule an appointment if they don’t feel the problem is serious enough to be considered a dental emergency. If you’re not sure how urgent your situation is, keep reading to learn more about it!

What Causes Toothaches?

A toothache refers to the throbbing sensation in your mouth that occurs when you’ve developed an infection or sustained an injury. It’s considered one of the most common dental emergencies and can impact people of all ages. It can be caused by:

• Worn down teeth. If your teeth are worn down enough that the root is exposed, it can be irritated by harmful bacteria in your mouth.
• Cavities. Unwanted germs thrive in your mouth and contribute to tooth decay which can leave you feeling tender. Brushing and flossing twice daily can prevent this.
• Impacted teeth. If you have teeth that haven’t fully erupted from your gums, they can become infected or cause alignment issues. This is common with wisdom teeth which is why they’re so frequently extracted.
• Chips or breaks. Whether you were hit or bit into something too hard, damaged pearly whites can be quite sensitive.

Is Tooth Pain a Dental Emergency?

You might not think that your hurting tooth requires immediate attention, especially if you’re only having minor discomfort. You might even think of it as a simple inconvenience that will eventually resolve itself. Unfortunately, the truth is that dental issues typically don’t mend themselves and usually get worse over time. The CDC recommends treating dental emergencies within 24 hours from when you had the incident or noticed the problem. If you’re in serious pain, are bleeding, or have a fever and chills, then you should get help right away.

How Can I Alleviate My Toothache?

Once you call your dentist, they’ll put you on the schedule either the same day or at a more appropriate time, depending on your circumstances. Then, there are things you can do so that you don’t suffer while waiting for your appointment. Some helpful tips are:

• Take over-the-counter medication. Tylenol and ibuprofen are generally safe to use and can provide relief as well as reduce inflammation.
• Apply a cold compress. Ice packs or other cold compresses can temporarily numb your face and jaw for a much-needed reprieve. Hold it to the side of your face for 15-20 minutes at a time.
• Rinse with warm salt water. Salt acts like a natural disinfectant so create a solution by adding ½ teaspoon into a glass with warm water. Rinse your mouth gently then spit the mixture out. Feel free to repeat this until the cup is empty.

Whether your toothache is mild, moderate, or severe, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. Once you do, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your smile is being well cared for!

About the Practice

At Advanced Dental Solutions of Pittsburgh, patients benefit from a full range of services provided by a team of experts, including emergency dentistry. They offer multiple options for sedation as well as same-day appointments, so you don’t have to wait for relief. With state-of-the-art technology onsite, they can quickly diagnose problems and provide long-lasting solutions. They know emergencies happen at inopportune times and so have extended hours to accommodate you. If you have a toothache and need an appointment, you’re welcome to request one on the website or by calling (412) 854-2310.