Do you find yourself in discomfort due to tooth pain and are uncertain whether it necessitates immediate dental attention? Dealing with a toothache can significantly impact your ability to function at work or school, get a good night’s sleep, or enjoy quality time with loved ones. It’s crucial to be aware of the signs that can assist you in assessing whether your toothache warrants urgent care. Keep reading to gain a better understanding of different types of tooth pain and to identify the appropriate healthcare professional for each particular situation.
3 Types of Non-Urgent Tooth Pain
It’s essential to promptly schedule an appointment with your dentist if you experience any form of dental pain to prevent its progression. However, there are specific types of toothaches that do not qualify as urgent. These include:
- Constant, dull ache – Persistent, vague discomfort that radiates throughout the mouth can result from various factors, including teeth grinding or a gum infection. We’ll delve into these factors more extensively.
- Flashes of tooth sensitivity –If you occasionally experience fleeting moments of tooth sensitivity, particularly when exposed to hot or cold temperatures, it might indicate issues like a broken filling, cavity, or a minor crack exposing the inner layers of your tooth. It’s essential to address this concern promptly, as leaving such conditions untreated can potentially lead to infections.
- Pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth – Individuals who have not undergone wisdom tooth extraction may encounter discomfort or pain in the rear of their mouth. This discomfort can signify the presence of impacted wisdom teeth or wisdom teeth growing in an improper alignment. In such cases, extraction of the affected tooth is often the recommended course of action.
3 Types of Urgent Toothaches
Although the aforementioned categories of toothaches usually don’t require an immediate trip to the dentist, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with your dentist at your earliest convenience if you are currently experiencing any of the following:
- Intense, long-lasting pain –When you’re enduring intense toothaches that last for over a day or disrupt your sleep, it may signal an infection. In these situations, swift treatment is imperative, and you should promptly seek dental care.
- Darkening of the tooth –If a tooth develops a dark or discolored appearance accompanied by pain, it might be a sign of injury near the tooth’s nerves. This situation warrants attention as it could indicate underlying problems, and it’s recommended to consult a dentist for a thorough assessment and appropriate treatment.
- Sharp pain when biting down –Should you encounter sharp, severe pain while biting or chewing, it may be a signal of infection around your tooth’s root region. Swift treatment is essential to mitigate the risk of potential tooth loss.
Toothaches can arise from minor cavities or more severe underlying problems. It’s crucial to promptly notify your dentist when you first encounter tooth pain. Early communication allows them to deliver timely treatment and restore your oral health to its optimal state!
About the Practice
Dr. Hooks welcomes you to their Altavista, VA dental practice. At Hooks Family Dentistry, we treat patients of all ages and warmly welcome you and your family to our clinic.
From dental treatments like fillings and root canals to cosmetic procedures like veneers and even preventative care like exams and cleanings, we do it all in a warm and friendly environment that will leave you smiling from ear to ear!
To schedule an appointment with our dental team, please visit our website, or call 434-215-0363 today!