When Should I Call a Dentist About a Toothache?
Calling a dentist about a toothache should occur when home remedies don’t work, and the pain is persistent. You should contact your dentist immediately if there is swelling or a fever. That is a sign of an infection, and the only way to treat it is with prescribed antibiotics.
Toothache Pain
Toothaches can develop in many situations, and understanding what may be causing tooth pain can help determine when you should call a dentist. Many dental offices have emergency dentistry, so there is no need to wait in pain.
Injuries
Obvious mouth trauma from sports or accidents should be looked at immediately. Damaged teeth from grinding (bruxism) or biting hard objects may not cause immediate pain but can develop infections months later.
Infections
Infections can be dangerous because they can travel to other parts of the body if left untreated. Infections can cause swelling, fever, nausea, and a lot of pain.
That is why seeing your dentist regularly is important. They can check for damage that may not be visible but show up on X-rays.
⚠️ It is best to take care of infections sooner rather than later. Go to the dentist at the first sign of gum redness or swelling.
📊 Canada: 2.26 million school days are lost yearly because of dental issues
Checklist for Calling an Emergency Dentist
You shouldn’t see an emergency dentist for every mouth pain. Pain that is mild and fades in and out should be looked at, but can be handled with a regular dental appointment. This type of pain occurs sometimes when food is trapped between teeth, or you’ve had recent dental work.
Dental pain can also occur when you have a sinus infection or suffer from tooth sensitivity. Those can be managed through regular dental or doctor appointments.
Emergency Dentistry Is For Those With Sudden Pain or Trauma
They can’t wait a few days for an appointment. Here is a checklist to know if you need an emergency dentist:
- Pain that is throbbing and doesn’t go away with over-the-counter medications
- A problem with opening your mouth or swallowing
- Mouth injury or trauma
- Significant swelling in the mouth and face
- Fever or chills
- Nausea
- Pus in the mouth
- A foul taste in the mouth that doesn’t go away
- Mouth sores that cause significant pain and don’t allow you to eat
🚨 What to Do After a Mouth Injury
Those suffering from a mouth injury sustained in a sports incident or accident should take a moment to assess damage before calling the dentist. Knocked-out teeth can sometimes be reinserted.
Step 1: Save the Tooth
Pick up any knocked-out teeth and put them either in milk or your saliva to transport to the dentist
Step 2: Stop the Bleeding
Put gauze or tissue on the bleeding part of your mouth to stop the bleeding
Step 3: Call Immediately
Call for an emergency dental appointment and go straight there
What to Do While Waiting for An Appointment
Those waiting for a regular dental appointment to address tooth pain don’t need to suffer. There are at-home treatments you can do while you wait.
💧 Saltwater Rinses
Help relieve pain and heal
❄️ Cold Compress
May help with pain or relieve jaw swelling
💊 Topical Numbing Gels
Offer temporary relief
Avoid Pain Triggers
You can avoid pain by eliminating triggers while you wait for your appointment. Avoid:
- Foods served at extreme hot or cold temperatures
- Spicy foods
- Hard foods
- Foods with sharp edges like chips or crisps
Frequently Asked Questions
Will insurance cover emergency dentistry?
Some insurance and government programs cover the cost of emergency dentistry. Check with your provider to be sure.
What happens at an emergency dentist?
A dentist will take an X-ray and determine the problem. They will perform any procedures deemed immediately necessary. They likely will give you prescriptions for pain and antibiotics.
Will I need a follow-up appointment?
Yes, you will likely need a follow-up appointment to address the dental issue fully. Emergency dentistry resolves immediate pain, but many issues require ongoing treatment.
Does it cost more to go to an emergency dentist?
Emergency dentistry has a fee, but it isn’t necessarily more than a regular office visit. It depends on the services rendered. You will be given an itemized bill that outlines your out-of-pocket cost.
Don’t Wait in Pain
Those with ongoing tooth pain should see a dentist. The solution may be easier than you think. Call us today for an appointment.