Emergency Dental Care for Toothaches: Signs You Should Seek Immediate Treatment Are you in a dental emergency? Call us now at (561) 566-5443.   Toothache can occur at any time, and it is often when we are least prepared that it is triggered. It could be that we are suffering from a dull toothache or a severe one, in which case it becomes very difficult to carry out our daily activities. Even when some of us tend to overlook this pain, it sometimes results in some kind of severe condition that needs to be taken care of right away. If you are having tooth pain, you need to know when it is time to visit an emergency dentist in Boca Raton. Continue reading to learn some of the common symptoms that indicate you need to visit an emergency dentist in Boca Raton.  

Causes of Toothaches

Toothaches may result from a variety of conditions. These conditions may be minor or major. These are some of the main causes of toothaches: Cavities or tooth decay: When bacteria start to decompose tooth enamel, it results in tooth decay or, in simpler terms, a ‘cavity’ that is very painful.

• Abscessed Tooth: An infection at the root of a tooth can cause pain and swelling.
• Cracked or Broken Tooth: When a tooth is cracked due to an injury or a fall, it results in severe pain while biting.
• Gum Disease: Infection of the gum tissue resulting in inflammation and pain in the area of the tooth.
• Teeth Grinding: Habitual grinding of teeth can strain the teeth, leading to pain and discomfort.

Toothache can range from minor to severe. Learning to recognize symptoms that require urgent care is essential to maintaining your oral hygiene.  

Types of Toothaches

Although the toothache may heal on its own, there may be signs of serious conditions that require professional attention. Below are signs that your toothache requires emergency dental care.

1. Intense or Severe Pain

Probably the first symptom that would warrant a visit to the emergency dentist in Boca Raton is the severity of your pain. If you are feeling tooth pain that’s become sharp and worsening despite taking pain medication, it’s time to seek emergency care. Tooth pain can signify several serious problems. These would range from abscesses to cracked teeth to tooth decay. If you are having difficulty finding relief and find that this pain is interfering with daily functions such as eating and speaking, it is essential that you visit an emergency dentist in Boca Raton as soon as possible.

2. Swelling or Fever

Swelling around the jaw, face, and oral region, accompanied by a temperature, may be a sign of an infection in the dentition, such as a bacterial abscess. Infections left alone have a chance to spread to all areas of the body and can cause dire complications, such as the loss of teeth and overall health problems. In the case of severe swelling, one must seek immediate dental assistance. Having a fever along with swelling and pain may also indicate that the infection is advancing, in addition to affecting overall health. It does not have to reach the worst stage; hence, professional attention is needed right away.

3. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold

Sensitivity to hot or cold stimuli may be a precursor to some underlying problems, such as cavities, periodontal disease, or damaged teeth. If the sensitivity persists or causes you pain, it may indicate a serious condition. Emergency dentists will help you alleviate these issues while ensuring that your teeth and gums remain unharmed. A possible indication of a problem beyond mere sensitivity is if consumption of hot and cold products results in a persistent, sharp pain.

4. Bleeding Gums or Tooth

Gum bleeding may indicate gum disease, an infection of the gum-supporting structures around your teeth. If your gums have been bleeding without ceasing, it is a clear indication of a deeper infection that must be treated. On the other hand, tooth bleeding also requires you to see a dentist as soon as possible. The reasons may be trauma or a dental infection. If the bleeding does not stop with gentle pressure on the affected area, or if it is accompanied by pain or swelling, do not hesitate; seek immediate care.

5. A Knocked-Out or Loose Tooth 

An accident and injury could result in a knocked-out/loose tooth. If so, you should immediately seek emergency dental attention. If you have a tooth knocked out, try to put it back into its socket; if not, store it in milk and visit your dentist. When your tooth is loose but not completely out, an emergency dentist will examine it and decide whether it is savable or requires extraction.

6. Pain When Chewing and Biting

Pain while chewing or biting can indicate a problem with the tooth’s nerve or a crack in the tooth. When you have pain while eating or drinking, it means there is a problem that requires you to seek urgent attention from a dentist.  

Take Action Today

With proper dental treatment, you can prevent further dental issues, relieve pain, and maintain a healthy smile for the rest of your life. In the Boca Raton area, emergency dental services are available to address tooth pain. Whether you find yourself in an urgent situation or need a consultation, we are here to help you alleviate the pain you are feeling. Your oral health is important to us, and we are dedicated to providing you with the best care when you need it most. At Regency Court Dentistry, we provide compassionate, timely care for severe toothache pain. At our modern facility, we have the equipment to provide you with care in the event of a dental emergency, and we ensure you receive the assistance you need as soon as possible.  

FAQs

1. What should I do if I have a toothache at night?

If you have a toothache at night, try rinsing your mouth with warm salt water and applying a cold compress to your face. If the pain persists, schedule an appointment with an emergency dentist in Boca Raton as soon as possible.

2. Can I wait to see a dentist for a mild toothache?

Mild toothaches can often be treated with over-the-counter pain relief, but if the pain lasts more than a few days or worsens, it’s important to see a dentist to rule out underlying issues such as cavities or infections.

3. How do I know if my toothache is serious?

If your toothache is severe, persistent, or accompanied by swelling, fever, or bleeding, it’s time to seek emergency dental care. These could be signs of a serious infection or injury that needs prompt treatment.

4. Can I treat a dental abscess at home?

No, dental abscesses require professional treatment. Attempting to treat an abscess at home could spread the infection and worsen the condition. Seek emergency dental care immediately.

5. What should I do if my tooth gets knocked out?

If your tooth is knocked out, gently rinse it with water (without scrubbing), and place it back into the socket or store it in milk. Seek emergency dental care as soon as possible to increase the chances of saving the tooth.