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Not all dental pain requires an emergency visit, but some cases do. This blog explains how to tell the difference between routine discomfort and a true dental emergency.
You will learn the red flags that require urgent care, when to wait for a regular dental appointment, and how Morris Dental Solutions can help protect your smile when problems strike.
If your dental pain is severe, constant, involves swelling, bleeding, fever, or trauma, it is a dental emergency. Seek urgent treatment right away.
Understanding Dental Pain
Dental pain is the body’s way of signaling that something is wrong.
Toothaches come in many forms, dull, sharp, throbbing, or radiating. The cause and intensity determine whether it is a minor dental issue or a medical emergency.
- Minor pain: Often caused by sensitivity, small cavities, or clenching.
- Severe or sudden pain: Could indicate tooth infection, nerve damage, or a fractured tooth.
- Pain with other symptoms: Swelling, signs of infection, or fever may signal a dangerous dental emergency.
Signs You Are Having a Dental Emergency
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact an emergency dentist:
1. Intense, constant pain: If you are unable to sleep, eat, or concentrate due to severe tooth pain, this is urgent. Deep tooth decay, fractured teeth, or infected pulp are common causes.
2. Swelling in the face or jaw: Swelling typically means infection. If untreated, it can spread to the soft tissues or even affect the facial bones.
3. Knocked-out or loose adult tooth: A knocked-out tooth must be treated with emergency care, ideally within one hour for the best chance of saving it.
4. Persistent bleeding: If bleeding does not stop after oral trauma or a dental procedure, seek emergency treatment immediately. Uncontrolled bleeding can become serious.
5. Fever or pus drainage: These are signs of a tooth abscess or severe infection. Prompt treatment is necessary to prevent complications.
6. Pain that worsens after treatment: Post-operative sharp pains or persistent pain may indicate an underlying issue such as dry socket or tooth infection. Contact a dental professional without delay.
When Dental Pain Can Wait
Some oral health concerns may feel urgent but are not true emergencies.
1. Mild tooth sensitivity: Often caused by enamel wear or gum disease. Use a soft toothbrush and sensitivity toothpaste. Monitor the discomfort.
2. Lost filling or crown without pain: This needs a dental appointment soon, but it is not an emergency unless the area becomes painful or exposed to further damage.
3. Food stuck between teeth: Gently remove the object with floss. If discomfort remains, visit your regular dentist to prevent gum tissue irritation.
4. Broken braces or wires: These may irritate soft tissues but rarely require emergency treatment unless they cut the gums or inner cheek.
Why You Should Never Ignore a Dental Emergency
Delaying dental treatment increases risk.
- Dental infections can spread to other areas of the body, becoming life-threatening.
- Tooth damage can worsen, leading to tooth loss or the need for more complex procedures such as root canal therapy or emergency tooth extractions.
- Untreated oral trauma or gum disease can damage the jaw or surrounding structures.
Urgent care helps reduce pain, lower cost, and prevent future complications.
How Morris Dental Solutions Handles Emergencies
We do more than relieve symptoms, we treat the root cause.
We use advanced tools such as digital X-rays to assess dental injuries or signs of infection. Depending on your condition, we may recommend:
- Root canal therapy for infected teeth
- Tooth extractions for severe cases or impacted wisdom teeth
- Emergency restorations for broken teeth or chipped teeth
- Antibiotic treatment to control bacterial or fungal infections
- Emergency appointments for trauma-related dental issues
Our team ensures you receive professional care and follow-up support.
| Pro Tips to Avoid Dental EmergenciesGood habits reduce your risk of facing a dental emergency.Visit your dentist regularly: Maintain routine dental care to catch problems early.Do not ignore minor symptoms: A mild toothache can develop into a severe toothache without attention.Wear protective gear: Nightguards and sports mouthguards protect from oral trauma.Practice strong oral hygiene: Brush with a soft toothbrush and avoid habits that lead to tooth decay or dental infections.Call early for concerns: Our team provides effective treatment before issues escalate. |
To book an appointment at our dental office in Buffalo Grove, IL, call (847) 215-1511 or visit us at 195 N. Arlington Heights Rd., Suite 160, Buffalo Grove, IL.
