Is a Severe Toothache Considered a Dental Emergency?

More than 40% of adults in the United States have had pain in their mouths during the last year. While not all mouth pain is caused by a toothache, tooth pain (especially from cavities) is common. In fact, almost 90% of adults have had tooth decay, which requires prompt dental care.

At the first sign of a toothache, regardless of its severity, schedule an evaluation with the dental experts at SuperTooth™, with offices in Bethesda, Gaithersburg, and Germantown, Maryland, to avoid worsening pain and complications.

Causes of severe toothaches

The following are the underlying causes of severe toothaches:

• Crack, chip, or break in your tooth
• Dental decay
• Tooth infection
• Filling or dental crown damage
• Tooth abscess 
• Gum disease
• Clenching or grinding

Your toothache might feel like a constant and dull pain, sharp or throbbing pain, discomfort when chewing, or extreme tooth sensitivity. You may also have a headache, gum swelling, bad breath, fever, chills, or a loose tooth. These are all signs of dental emergencies. 

Why severe toothaches are dental emergencies

There are many reasons a severe toothache is a dental emergency. Decay, infections, and tooth damage need prompt dental care to avoid complications, such as worsening pain or a permanent tooth falling out. If your tooth is severely damaged and not salvageable, it may need to be extracted and replaced with an artificial tooth. 

What to do if you have a severe toothache

Contact Supertooth at the first sign of tooth pain, even if it’s minor and doesn’t bother you much, and especially if the discomfort is persistent. Your dentist can schedule a same-day emergency dental appointment for a severe toothache. 

You can also place an ice pack on the area to ease any swelling and pain or rinse your mouth with saltwater, a natural disinfectant. Simply add ½ teaspoon of salt to 8 ounces of warm water, swish the mixture around in your mouth for about 30 seconds, and spit it out.

Ways to reduce the risk of toothaches

Ways to reduce the risk of toothaches and other dental problems include:

• Seeing a general or family dentist regularly
• Attending routine professional dental cleanings (at least every six months)
• Brush your teeth after meals using fluoride toothpaste
• Floss every day
• Limit sugary foods and drinks
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash as directed by your dental provider
• Ask your dentist about preventive fluoride treatments and dental sealants

Report any tooth damage or pain to the Supertooth experts right away (don’t wait) to avoid extreme pain, a loose or fallen-out permanent tooth, or other dental complications. 

Do you have a severe toothache or other dental emergency? Contact us today at Supertooth by calling our office or booking an appointment online.