No amount of tooth pain is considered normal, despite how mild it may be. After all, it’s designed to alert you that something is wrong with your mouth. That means you should not ignore it by any means! However, many people with a toothache find themselves wondering whether it requires an emergency visit or if it can wait until their next appointment. Are you currently facing this predicament? Well, we’ve got an answer for you. Read on to learn when a toothache requires urgent care, what can happen if you choose to ignore it, and tips for managing your pain.
When Should You See Your Emergency Dentist for Tooth Pain?
Are you able to manage your tooth pain with over-the-counter medication or home remedies? If so, you should be able to hold off seeking care until your next dentist appointment. However, if the pain is unbearable and you can’t get relief even with medication, you should schedule an appointment with your emergency dentist as soon as possible.
Here are some signs that can alert you of a tooth that requires immediate dental care:
- Pain when pressure is applied to the tooth. If you feel pain when your tooth is touched or while biting down on something, it could mean you have a severe cavity or faulty dental restoration, both of which require prompt treatment.
- Swollen jaw. Do you have swelling around your neck and jaw area? It might be a sign of an infection that has begun spreading to other parts of the body. You must seek emergency dental care immediately to avoid life-threatening consequences.
- A fractured tooth or dental restoration. A chipped tooth or dental restoration will need to be repaired right away. Otherwise, it can become sensitive, and the sharp edges can cut your gums, tongue, and cheek.
What Happens If You Ignore Tooth Pain?
Chronic tooth pain often indicates cavities or an infection. If you choose to ignore it, it could spread to the center of the tooth, infecting the pulp and causing your condition to worsen. At this point, you might experience extreme sensitivity – even talking could be painful! If the decay progresses, it could eventually lead to the death of the nerve at the root. The pain might suddenly disappear, making patients think that the problem has resolved on its own. However, months or years after that happens, the pain will return with a vengeance. That’s primarily because the cavity has developed into a fully formed abscess.
Tips to Manage Your Tooth Pain
While waiting for your appointment, here are some ways you can manage your tooth pain:
- Apply a cold compress on your cheek over the area where you feel pain
- Rinse with warm salt water
- Use dental floss to remove any debris stuck between your teeth
- Take over-the-counter pain medication as needed to reduce pain
If you’re suffering from an intense toothache, don’t hesitate to contact your emergency dentist in Eatontown for help. They’ll provide you with the prompt relief you deserve!
About the Practice
At NU Dental Eatontown, we provide exceptional, high-quality, personalized dental services unlike anywhere else. Our team uses the latest technologies and techniques to ensure you receive the best treatment possible. If you have an unbearable toothache, schedule an emergency appointment with us today. We’ll get you the relief you deserve. Visit our website or call (732) 863-3899.