It goes without saying that a toothache is typically a sign that you need to call your emergency dentist as soon as possible. But did you realize that there’s more than one kind of toothache you can experience? The nature of your discomfort can go a long way toward helping you narrow down what’s causing it so that you can take the appropriate next steps. Here’s a quick look at some common types of toothaches.
Dull, Lingering Toothaches
If you have a dull toothache that doesn’t seem to go away, it could point to a variety of dental issues. Sometimes it might simply be the result of having a bit of food trapped between your teeth; in other cases, it may be a consequence of a dental abscess. Check your smile to see if there’s any food debris that might be causing the pain. If not, you should see a dentist as soon as possible in case there’s a severe infection.
Tooth Sensitivity
People with sensitive teeth may experience pain whenever they eat something hot or cold. Sensitivity that only lasts a few seconds isn’t necessarily a major problem. But if the discomfort persists for 30 seconds or more, it could mean that you have a decayed or cracked tooth, or the roots of your tooth may have been exposed due to gum recession.
Sharp, Jabbing Pain
Sharp pain typically indicates a dental issue that needs to be diagnosed and treated by a professional as soon as possible. It could be caused by a lost restoration (such as a filling or a crown), or it could be your first clue that your tooth has been damaged in some way. Once your dentist has evaluated the tooth and figured out what the problem is, they can determine the best steps to take to put a stop to the pain.
Severe, Throbbing Pain
You should make an emergency appointment with your dentist right away if you ever experience a severe, throbbing toothache. In many cases, the pain will be the result of an advanced infection, and swift action is necessary if you want to give yourself the best chance of saving the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be removed altogether to protect your oral health.
Even if you’re not sure what’s causing your tooth pain, it’s always best to play it safe and call your dentist to see what they recommend. Acting quickly is often the key to finding relief from your pain while keeping your smile as a whole safe.
About the Author
Dr. Dan Greenwood studied dentistry at The Ohio State University. At his Sagamore Hills practice, Greenwood Dental, he tries to see his patients as soon as possible in the event of a toothache or another dental emergency. If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Greenwood, visit his website or call (330) 467-2522.