Have you been experiencing a toothache that isn’t going away? They can feel like the worst thing in the world. No matter how much you believe that you can handle the pain, it isn’t a good idea to go too long without dental attention. A toothache typically means that something isn’t quite right in your mouth. You are better off heading to the dental office so that your emergency dentist in Springfield can take a look. Continue reading to learn more about the causes of a toothache and what you should do if you have one.
Is a Toothache a Dental Emergency?
If you have been experiencing a toothache for more than 1 to 2 days, and it is causing you a lot of pain or discomfort, this typically indicates that you are experiencing a dental emergency. This means that you might have a cavity, infected tooth, or another issue that will not go away on its own. Without proper treatment from an emergency dentist, your condition will only get worse.
What Are the Causes of Toothaches?
Here are a few of the most common reasons for toothaches:
- Cavities: If you have a cavity that has penetrated through the protective enamel and into the dentin of the tooth, you are likely to experience pain and discomfort when you chew. This is particularly the case when you eat sweet, sugary foods or foods that are particularly hot or cold.
- Infected Tooth: A cavity that is left untreated can cause the entire tooth to become infected. It this point, there is extreme pain and discomfort, and you may require a root canal in order to have your tooth saved. The pain is usually accompanied by tooth sensitivity and swelling of the gums.
- Oral Trauma: If your smile was injured for one reason or another and you are experiencing pain, one or more of your teeth could have been cracked or broken.
- Bruxism: Bruxism is an issue in which you clench and/or grind your teeth, usually during the night. Doing this for a long period of time can put stress on the ligaments and roots of the teeth, causing them to ache. If you think that you have bruxism, this is something to discuss with your dentist.
What Do You Do If You Have a Toothache?
If you are suffering from a toothache, the first thing you should do is call your dentist to make an appointment as soon as you can. Until you are able to get there, try the following to relieve pain:
- Use an over-the-counter pain reliever.
- Rinse with saltwater.
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
If you have a toothache, don’t put off your dental visit. The sooner you head to the dentist, the quicker you will be able to get some relief and prevent further issues.
About the Author
Dr. Eric L. Tolliver earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Currently, he is a member of numerous professional organizations including the American Dental Association and Missouri Dental Association. If you are experiencing a toothache, he would be happy to help you get some relief. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (417) 887-5757.