Emergency Toothache: Causes, Symptoms and Immediate Actions
Experiencing a toothache can be one of the most unpleasant sensations ever. It’s disruptive and painful, making it difficult to concentrate and go about your daily activities. And when it strikes unexpectedly, it quickly becomes an emergency. But what causes an emergency toothache, what are its symptoms, and what immediate actions should you undertake? This article explores these points.
CAUSES OF EMERGENCY TOOTHACHE
An emergency toothache can be triggered by a number of factors. One of the most common is dental decay, an issue arising when plaque forms on the teeth, reacting with consumed sugars to produce acid. Over time, this acid erodes the tooth’s enamel, leading to tooth decay and subsequent toothache.
Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, often leads to acute pain. This inflammatory condition affects the tissues that surround and support the teeth. If untreated, it can lead to the loosening emergency toothache and ultimate loss of teeth.
Other causes of an emergency toothache may include a dental abscess (an accumulation of pus due to a bacterial infection), a cracked tooth, erupting wisdom teeth, or dental procedures such as tooth extraction or root canal treatment.
SYMPTOMS OF AN EMERGENCY TOOTHACHE
Emergency toothache symptoms vary depending on the cause and severity. However, here are some common indicators:
1. Persistent, throbbing pain in or around a tooth, often worsening while eating or at night
2. Sensitivity to hot or cold substances
3. Swelling around the tooth or face
4. Fever or headache
5. Foul-tasting drainage from the infected tooth
In severe cases, patients may feel short of breath, which could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition and should be treated as a dental emergency.
IMMEDIATE ACTIONS FOR AN EMERGENCY TOOTHACHE
1. Rinse Your Mouth: Start by rinsing your mouth with warm water. This will help clean out any loose debris and may relieve pain.
2. Use Dental Floss: Carefully use dental floss or a dental flosser to remove any food lodged between your teeth. Try not to apply too much pressure, especially if your gums are sensitive or bleeding.
3. Over-the-Counter Relief: Topical numbing gels containing benzocaine may provide temporary relief from dental pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers such acetaminophen or ibuprofen can also help, but never apply these directly to your gums, as they can cause burns.
4. Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to the affected area for 15 minutes at a time to help reduce any swelling and numb pain.
5. Emergency Dental Visit: If the toothache persists, seek immediate professional help. Contact an emergency dentist for an immediate appointment.
Toothaches can considerably disrupt daily life, but by identifying the common causes, recognizing the symptoms and taking prompt action, you can minimize the impact and expedite recovery. However, these actions are not a pansophic remedy but rather stop-gap measures before you can reach a dentist’s office. Always consult with a dental professional to accurately diagnose your symptoms and receive appropriate treatment.