When it comes to tooth pain, it’s often not a fun experience. It can manifest in a couple of different ways, from a dull ache to sharp discomfort. You might notice it put a damper on your everyday living, but is it necessarily a dental emergency? Some reasons may not need urgent care, and others might! Here’s how you can tell when you should call your dentist to get relief right away.
Why Is My Tooth Hurting?
The answer to this question can be many things, but the only way to know for sure is by having your dentist take a look. These are some common reasons:
- Tooth infection
- Cavities
- Worn teeth where the roots have become exposed
- Damage, like a chip or crack
- Impacted teeth
- Food lodged between your teeth
- Weakened enamel from sugary or acidic foods.
Should I Visit My Dentist Right Away?
If you feel any sort of tooth pain, then it doesn’t hurt to call your dentist, regardless of the culprit. Oral health issues, like an infection or decay, can’t heal on their own. These can worsen and spread to your nearby teeth and gums, making it into a bigger headache! Damage can’t repair itself also, so getting it fixed can prevent further harm.
Although it’s better to be safe than sorry, if it were just stray food, then your toothache is likely no big deal. However, if you notice any of the following, then visit your dentist to ensure nothing is awry:
- Worsening tooth pain that becomes too intense to deal with
- Swelling and fever
- Noticeable damage to the tooth
- Severe sensitivity to hot and cold items
Can I Do Anything At-Home to Get Temporary Relief?
Once you call your provider, they will be able to get you scheduled as soon as possible and oftentimes give you advice to follow until you see them that same day or in the near future. To help give you some relief now, you can take pain relievers or use an ice pack for about 20-minute intervals.
Remember that these two are just temporary solutions. They won’t give you the long-term relief that you deserve. Once you get the treatment you need, you’ll be able to have a pain-free smile that you feel confident in.
In the end, calling your dentist about your tooth discomfort may be the best choice. It’ll help ensure it’s nothing serious, so you avoid any bigger problems in the future!
About the Practice
At Hill Dental Wellness, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Kelsey Hill and Dr. Kenneth Myers. We are here to help the Falmouth community feel confident about their oral health through a wide range of treatments. While dental emergencies, like tooth pain, can catch you off guard, our team is here to help you get relief. You have the option for same-day urgent visits to get you back to pristine as soon as possible. If you have any sort of dental discomfort, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling (207) 797-3130.