There are two categories of tooth pain. The first will make you wonder whether you should go to the dentist or not. The second is the kind so bad that you aren’t wondering at all. If you’re experiencing the second kind, the only thing this guide can tell you is to follow your instincts. For the first kind, however, you may not be sure that what you’re experiencing is a genuine dental emergency. If you’re still wondering, here are four types of dental pain you should definitely talk to a professional about.
#1: Pain When Biting
If you feel a twinge any time you put pressure on a tooth, that could be a sign of a few things. The first is an abscess on the gums, meaning the area is infected. The second is an invisible fracture that you may not be able to see. Such a fracture could let in bacteria, leading to potential disease in the future. In either case, you should have the pain checked out by a dentist.
#2: Constant Throbbing
A constant throbbing pain is one of the least pleasant there is, so much so that it can become impossible to focus on anything until it’s dealt with. Usually, this is indicative of bacteria having infiltrated deep into the tooth, such that you’ll probably require a root canal. Even if the pain dissipates, the infection has not, so it’s important to keep your appointment with your emergency dentist.
#3: Sharp Pain
If you feel sudden, cutting pain as you go about your day, you may be in trouble. This is often a sign of a long-untreated cavity. If allowed to develop any further, such tooth decay can lead to gum disease or tooth loss.
#4: Heat and Cold Sensitivity
In some instances, this pain may be minor. There are plenty of people that feel a slight twinge when they eat ice cream. This is due to a lack of protective enamel on the front of the teeth. While certainly not good, and probably still worth seeing a dentist about, this doesn’t necessarily constitute a dental emergency. However, if you experience a jab of intense pain when you sip coffee or a glass of ice water, it could be a sign of an exposed root or untreated cavity. In that case, you should consult a professional immediately.
Toothaches are rarely a good thing. If you are experiencing discomfort strong enough to notice, you should probably play it safe and make an appointment with your emergency dentist. Even if the problem isn’t disastrous, they can create a treatment plan to ease the pain you’re feeling or tell you how to stop it from becoming worse.
About Our Practice
At Dental Essentials of Rocky Hill, our qualified team of emergency dentists has the expertise necessary to address any issue you might have. As soon as you arrive at our office, you will meet with one of our dentists who will quickly diagnose your issue. They’ll then create a personalized care plan to get you the help you need as fast as possible. If you have any questions about emergency dental services, we can be reached via our website or by phone at (860) 563-3766.