Toothache is one of the most common and frequently experienced kinds of mouth pain. While some pain goes away with over-the-counter medication, some cases can be quite severe that an Arlington emergency dental service is needed. In this article, were particularly breaking down the common causes of severe tooth pain and how to tell if it’s already an emergency situation.
What You Need to Know
When the nerve of a tooth root or of a surrounding tooth gets irritated — by bacteria, decay, injury, or a dental operation — the painful sensation you feel is called a toothache. And the pain, sometimes, isn’t just confined to the teeth; it can also be felt in the jaw and even in the sinus area.
A toothache, which can happen to a child or an adult, is characterized by symptoms like sensitivity to hot and cold food and drinks, pain with chewing, swelling near the affected area, and bleeding. It can also come with a bad taste and/or smell in the mouth. If symptoms persist, the person is recommended to consult a dentist or an Arlington emergency dental specialist.
Common Culprits of Toothache
There are different causes of a bad case of tooth pain. Here are some of the most common:
Tooth decay. Perhaps the most frequent cause of toothache, this happens when bacteria consume the enamel or protective layer of your teeth. These bacteria also leave plaque that can lead to cavities and dental holes.
Tooth Abscess. A cavity that is left untreated can infect the pulp portion of your tooth, which in turn can cause you throbbing tooth pain and swelling.
Tooth eruption. When a tooth grows, it is but natural to feel pain. But when it becomes impacted or its eruption is hindered, it will give you more painful sensations than the usual.
Gum infection. Referred to as gingivitis, this condition — when left untreated — can lead to permanent tooth loss. This is usually caused by improper oral hygiene, hormonal changes, and unhealthy lifestyle.
Bruxism. Commonly known as teeth grinding, this condition can result in teeth erosion. Apart from the pain that comes with it, it can also make your teeth become sensitive and cracked.
Loose dental work. There are instances when dental fillings or crowns get damaged, crack, and become loose. If this is not addressed immediately, exposed nerves can lead to severe tooth pain.
When to Call it a Dental Emergency
Some cases of toothache can be too severe that it needs to be promptly attended by an Arlington emergency dental expert. But, how do you spot such a situation?
A mild tooth pain isn’t typically accompanied by a fever, especially a high one. If you’re having chills, it could mean that the infection has spread to other areas of your mouth. Seek medical help immediately if this happens.
You’re also advised to do the same if the pain you’re feeling cannot be relieved by over-the-counter medications anymore, or if there are rashes that have appeared and won’t simply go away with topical solutions.
If you have a history of chest pain or heart disease, and your toothache comes with feelings of nausea and lightheadedness — plus vomiting — you should consult your doctor as soon as possible.
Don’t ignore Arlington emergency dental cases. Seek the help of our dentists at Arlington Advanced Dental Care. Contact us for more info.
