Categories: Emergency Dentist

When to go to an Emergency Dentist for a Toothache

A toothache is often the first sign that you need to visit the emergency dentist. If the toothache persists for more than a few days, you could be dealing with an infected tooth or worse. Without treatment, the situation may worsen and cause eventual tooth loss. The dentist will examine the tooth to learn the cause of the discomfort. Whether the pain is mild or severe, you can be sure of improved oral health and comfort at the end of the treatment.

Emergency visit for a toothache

Many patients often want to know when the pain they feel in their tooth counts as an emergency. The answer depends on certain factors. Someone dealing with bleeding or a knocked out tooth requires urgent attention and a trip to the dental office. Patients will need to store the tooth properly and keep it moist until the dentist can restore it to its position. To manage bleeding, apply pressure to the area to cause a blood clot in the tooth socket. Avoid postponing a trip to the emergency dentist if this is the case.

Tooth pain can occur in different forms, from a mild, dull ache to sharp, nagging pain. Pain should also mean sensitivity to touch and temperature. Patients need to understand that pain is not normal and certainly not something to endure. If pain continues for a while and reoccurs despite over-the-counter meds, a trip to the emergency dentist is necessary. An assessment will be important, especially if there are other symptoms like fever, loose teeth, swollen gums or jaw, dental abscess and difficulty breathing or swallowing.

Some dental issues can wait a while before a dental appointment, but it depends on the severity of the condition. While a chipped or cracked tooth may not exactly fall into the emergency category, it might be if the fracture causes pain. A toothache can wait if the pain is bearable, and there are no symptoms of infection. When the patient is unsure if the situation is an emergency, it is better to visit the dental office anyway and have the dentist address whatever concerns are present.

Avoiding a dental emergency

Many dental emergencies can be avoided by booking regular appointments with the dentist. Dental professionals do their best to keep the teeth healthy and free of cavities or decay. The patient will also get helpful tips on how to prevent dental emergencies from happening. The dentist may recommend getting a custom mouthguard to prevent damage to the teeth and oral tissues for those who engage in contact sports. Patients should also avoid biting or chewing on hard objects that can break their teeth.

Contact the emergency dentist

An emergency dental visit can solve much more than a toothache. You need to pay attention to your oral cavity and avoid ignoring the warning signs, which could mean something more serious. If you are dealing with a toothache and other symptoms like bleeding or inflammation, consider visiting the emergency dentist. They will find the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan to relieve pain.

Request an appointment here: http://www.drmccawley.com or call James R McCawley DDS at (615) 526-2497 for an appointment in our Murfreesboro office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Emergency Dentist in Murfreesboro, TN.

Recent Posts

3 Ways Emergency Dentists Provide Quick Relief

Wondering what an emergency dentist can do for you? Read on to learn more about this type of dental health professional. Dental emergencies can arise unexpectedly, causing significant discomfort and anxiety. An emergency dentist can help in such cases. They provide immediate care and relief by addressing urgent dental problems that cannot wait for a…

A General Dentist Talks About Dental Phobia

Dental phobia is typically classified as a more severe form of dental anxiety. It leads many people to avoid visiting the dentist altogether, and those who do visit the dentist battle through fear and severe anxiety. The good news is that there are effective ways for a general dentist to help patients who struggle with…

Why Is A Snoring Treatment Necessary?

When there is an obstruction in the airway during sleep that results in loud sounds, snoring treatment from a dentist may be beneficial. Nearly everyone snores at some point, but for some individuals, it is a chronic problem. Although surgery may be recommended for severe cases, there are also oral devices that can reduce the…

When Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Many dental patients find themselves needing a wisdom tooth extraction. Wisdom teeth, the third and last set of molars, usually erupt in a person’s late teens or early 20s. While some patients will have no problems with their wisdom teeth, these molars often become problematic and cause issues that require extraction.It is important for dental…

James R McCawley DDS

Share
Published by
James R McCawley DDS

Recent Posts

Why Is a Snoring Treatment Necessary?

When there is an obstruction in the airway during sleep that results in loud sounds,…

3 weeks ago

When Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Most dental professionals advise patients to have a wisdom tooth extraction procedure done as soon…

2 months ago

The Process of Getting Dental Veneers: What to Expect

Most patients feel some discomfort after getting dental veneers. But dental functions will be normal…

3 months ago

Achieve Your Dream Smile With a Skilled Cosmetic Dentist

A cosmetic dentist can help you achieve your dream smile through numerous treatments, all customized…

4 months ago

How Does Dental Oral Appliance Therapy Treat Sleep Apnea?

The main reason why sleep apnea treatment from a dental professional is so popular is…

5 months ago

3 Signs You Should Have Your Silver Fillings Replaced

Considering replacing your silver fillings? Learn more in this article as we go over a…

6 months ago