Is My Toothache Considered a Dental Emergency?

At Tenth Street Family Dental, toothaches are one of the problems that our knowledgeable dentists treat most often. 

With about 40% of American adults having suffered through the misery of a toothache recently, it’s no surprise that many patients may wonder if they need emergency dentistry services at some point. 

Every person is different, and every toothache is just as unique. So, that means there isn’t necessarily a “yes” or “no” answer about whether toothaches are dental emergencies. Since the month of December is the time of sweet treats (and unfortunately, sometimes, toothaches), we’re exploring how to tell if your toothache is a dental emergency this month on the blog.

Defining “dental emergency”

According to the American Dental Association, dental problems qualify as dental emergencies when they are potentially life-threatening. The following situations could qualify, so they need immediate attention.

• Uncontrollable bleeding
• Infections with severe swelling that could restrict your breathing
• Trauma to the facial bones, which could prevent breathing

When you have any of these issues, time is of the essence. Call the Tenth Street Family Dental office immediately to get emergency care. 

But, what if you’re in severe pain yet don't have one of those other issues? You still need help, but that’s when it falls more into the “urgent” category versus being a dental emergency. 

When you need urgent dental care for a toothache

We offer urgent dental care at Tenth Street Family Dental during regular business hours. Whether your toothache is more of a dull ache or a sharp spiking pain, we don't want you to suffer for another minute. 

You might not realize just how serious a toothache can be at first. The pain has a source — and often, it’s a problem such as a:

• Cavity
• Abscess
• Severe gum disease
• Cracked or broken tooth
• Damage from teeth-grinding
• Damaged filling or crown  

Just because these issues might not count as dental emergencies right now doesn’t mean they aren’t serious, and that’s why any toothache requires urgent care in our office. 

Untreated, an urgent situation can quickly turn into a life-threatening emergency. For instance, an untreated infection may lead to sepsis, which can kill you if not addressed immediately.

With urgent dental care in our office, we can quickly treat infections, restore damaged teeth, replace missing restorations, and provide any other treatment you need. We’ll get you out of pain and make sure the tooth pain doesn’t return. 

If you have a toothache, don’t let it ruin the holiday season for you. We’re here to help with dental emergencies and urgent dental care, so call our Tenth Street Family Dental office to get the care you need right away. You can also connect with us online now.