An acute toothache can be shocking, and it’s natural to wonder if what you’re feeling is a nuisance or a sign of something more. While a lingering ache can be bothersome, other forms of pain indicate that you should see an emergency dentist immediately. The solution is knowing the difference. This blog will help you recognize when your toothache is an actual emergency, requiring an urgent visit.

Differentiating Between a Minor Ache and a Big Issue

We’ve all experienced a sudden, burning sensation from an ice-cold drink or a sensitive tooth after eating something sweet. This kind of temporary sensitivity is a sign of worn-down enamel or a tiny cavity, and while it needs professional attention, it’s not an emergency.

However, if you have a very bad toothache, a throbbing, constant pain that disturbs your sleep at night, it could be a sign of a serious underlying ailment. This kind of pain doesn’t get better without treatment and may even get worse if treatment is delayed. Ignoring it can lead to a widespread infection.

Signs That Your Toothache is a Real Emergency

You should be careful to observe other symptoms that accompany your toothache. Such signs may be an unequivocal indicator that you need to see an emergency dentist in Irvine sooner rather than later.

• Swelling of Your Face or Gums: Swelling around a tooth is the most common symptom of an abscess—a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection. An abscess can become life-threatening by spreading to other parts of your body, including your neck and jaw.
• Constant, Throbbing Pain: This is one kind of pain that doesn’t go away, particularly if it’s severe enough to disrupt your lifestyle. It suggests that there is an infection in your pulp, the innermost structure of your tooth.
• Pimple-Like Bump on Your Gums: This is small and innocuous-looking, but it is another sign of the abscess making a bid to drain. Don’t disregard it.
• Pain When Biting or Chewing: Severe pain when biting down or chewing can be a sign of a cracked tooth, a loose filling, or a tooth root infection.

The Dangers of Delaying Treatment

It’s in vain to hope that a toothache will go away on its own. During an emergency, waiting can have catastrophic consequences. A dental infection can spread very quickly and develop into more severe, painful situations. As time passes by and treatment is delayed, a tooth infection can impact your overall health, too.

You don’t have to suffer through searing pain. Seeking assistance immediately not only provides relief that you welcome, but also protects your dental health. An emergency dentist will diagnose the problem and provide targeted treatment as per your condition. The earlier you seek treatment, the greater the likelihood of success.

What to Do If You Have a Dental Emergency

In case you are experiencing a toothache or any other of the symptoms mentioned above, the first thing is to call a dental clinic immediately.

We know from our experience that a dental emergency is worrisome. We go the extra mile to help you receive the care you need without delay. Call us to keep your smile healthy and strong for many years to come.