When You Should Seek Dental Care For Tooth Pain
Posted on: 8 September 2018
While it may not be rational, some people do not like going to the dentist, and some even fear it. Because of this, many people avoid dental care even when they absolutely need it. If you have recently begun to experience tooth pain, you may be in a place where you are trying to avoid the dentist unless a visit is completely necessary. However, it can be tough to tell when your tooth pain is something to be concerned about. Get to know some of the times when you should seek care from an emergency dentist for your tooth pain. Then, you can be sure that you are doing what is right for your teeth and your overall oral health.
You Have Ruled Out Sinus or Ear Issues
Occasionally, you can get a random toothache that is actually not related to the health of your teeth at all. Sinus pressure from congestion and even sinus infections can cause toothaches, particularly in the upper teeth. Similarly earaches related to sinus problems or ear infections can also cause tooth pain.
The nerves in the face are all interconnected, and certain nerves and even muscles extend from the sinuses and ears to the mouth. This can cause pain in one area when the true underlying issue is elsewhere.
If you have a toothache and suspect you may also be having ear and/or sinus issues, see a doctor before you go to the dentist. They can assess your sinuses and your ears and treat any medical conditions that may be causing your dental pain. If your doctor does not find any of these issues, then a trip to the dentist is likely in order.
Your Toothache Lasts More than 24 Hours
One major sign that you need to head to an emergency dentist for tooth pain is if the toothache lasts more than 24 hours. Sometimes, you can bite down wrong or bite something hard and irritate a tooth, which is an issue that usually resolves on its own. The pain from such incidents should resolve itself within a day (24 hours).
If your pain lasts for more than 24 hours, you likely have a more serious issue on your hands. This could mean you have a cavity, a chipped tooth, or other dental infections or damage that require treatment.
Your Pain Affects Your Ability to Function
No matter how long your dental pain has been going on, if it is severe enough to affect your ability to function in any way, going to the dentist is a must. You should not be in so much pain that you cannot talk, smile, eat, or sleep. This is a sign of a serious issue, but the pain itself is also a serious issue. You have every right to be pain-free, and going to an emergency dentist for severe tooth pain can make that happen for you sooner rather than later.
Now that you know the times when you should seek dental care for your tooth pain, you can schedule your appointment to get your dental pain resolved as soon as possible.
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