Tooth pain can range from a mild ache to a sharp, throbbing sensation, and it’s easy to wonder: should I go to the dentist? Is this pain a sign of a dental emergency? Knowing when tooth pain needs attention on the double can help protect your oral health and prevent the issue from getting worse with time. So, when is tooth pain a dental emergency? Continue reading to find out.
Why Do Your Teeth Hurt?
There are many reasons for tooth pain and not all of them are an emergency. If your toothache is mild and goes away after a day or two, it may be able to wait until you’ve scheduled a regular appointment. Here are some reasons your tooth pain may come and go:
- Sensitivity: Cold or hot drinks and foods can sometimes trigger sharp pain in teeth, especially if you have worn enamel or cavities.
- Teeth Grinding: Nighttime grinding or clenching can cause soreness in your teeth and jaw, which will usually fade with rest and care.
- Sinus Pressure: Congestion or sinus infections can cause pressure and pain that radiates to your teeth. In fact, many patients confuse tooth pain with sinus pain because they’re in the same area!
When Your Toothache Might Be a Dental Emergency
On the other hand, if you’re experiencing severe, persistent tooth pain, it’s often a sign that something more serious is happening beneath the surface. This type of pain may indicate:
- Tooth Decay: Deep cavities can reach the nerves in your teeth, causing sharp pain.
- Dental Abscess: An infection near the root of the tooth or in the gums can lead to intense pain, facial swelling, and even fever.
- Fractured Tooth: A cracked or broken tooth can expose the inner layers, leading to sensitivity and discomfort.
In these cases, tooth pain is a true dental emergency. Ignoring it could lead to infections, tooth loss, or other complications. So, it’s best to call your dentist immediately to diagnose the issue and get relief.
While not every instance of tooth pain is a dental emergency, it’s important to recognize the warning signs. Pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong, so always listen to it! And when you do decide something is wrong, don’t hesitate—early treatment can save you from more painful and expensive dental problems down the road.
About the Author
Dr. Arash Vahid is a dedicated and talented dentist who enjoys helping his patients find relief from pain. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Michigan Ann Arbor and has been providing quality dental care ever since. If you have a problem tooth, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call (201) 962-8452 to schedule an emergency appointment at AV Dental Associates of Ramsey or visit our website to learn more.