When Is A Toothache Considered a Dental Emergency?

9/2/2020

Tooth pain is usually a sign something is wrong with the teeth or gums. If you have a persistent toothache that lasts more than a few days, you may have an infected tooth or worse. Patients who do not seek immediate care may be left with permanent damage. So, when do you need to see an emergency dentist?

If you are experiencing tooth pain in Dallas or Houston, TX, contact the skilled professionals at MINT dentistry. We can figure out the cause of your discomfort through our comprehensive emergency services. Whether your pain is mild or severe, our patients are happy to enjoy improved dental health and great aesthetic results.

Is a toothache an emergency?

Many of our patients want to know – is a toothache an emergency? The answer depends on several factors. Patients with excessive bleeding or a knocked-out tooth need immediate attention and a trip to the emergency room. A lost tooth should be set aside and kept moist until it can be put back into place. To control bleeding, place pressure on the area to form a blood clot in the tooth socket. Do not put off seeing a medical professional in Dallas or Houston, TX, if this is the case.

There are many kinds of tooth pain, ranging from mild aches to sharp pain. Pain can also involve sensitivity to temperature and touch. Patients should understand that tooth pain should never be a part of their everyday life. If your discomfort does not go away over time or with over-the-counter medications, you require an emergency dentist. You should also call MINT dentistry for an assessment if the pain is accompanied by other serious signs and symptoms. This includes:

  • Fever

  • Loose teeth

  • Dental abscess

  • Swollen gums or jaw

  • Trouble breathing or swallowing

What is not a dental emergency

Sometimes, dental problems can wait several days for an appointment, but it depends on your situation. Although a chipped or cracked tooth is not necessarily considered a dental emergency, it can be if the fracture is very painful. A toothache can also wait as long as the pain is manageable, and you do not have symptoms of infection. If you are unsure what qualifies as a dental emergency, we welcome you to call our office and speak with a dentist right away. MINT dentistry is happy to address your questions and concerns.

Preventing a dental emergency

Many dental emergencies could be avoided by scheduling annual or biannual examinations with a dentist. Dentists work hard to make sure your teeth are healthy and free from cavities or decay. MINT dentistry can also suggest small ways to prevent dental emergencies from happening in the future. For patients who play contact sports, we suggest getting a custom mouth guard to prevent chipped or knocked-out teeth. We also recommend avoiding biting down on hard objects that could fracture your teeth.

How to contact an emergency dentist near me

Are you worried about tooth pain or other concerning symptoms, like bleeding and inflammation? Consider getting an emergency visit with MINT dentistry in Dallas and Houston, TX. We can find the cause of your toothache and offer innovative solutions to relieve your pain. Search for an emergency dentist near me to schedule your appointment and get started. Our dental clinic is proud to offer professional, advanced care so patients enjoy healthy teeth and beautiful smiles.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.