Does a Toothache Require Emergency Dentistry?

A toothache can be more than just an annoying discomfort; it can signal a serious dental issue that requires immediate attention. But how do you know when a toothache is a true dental emergency or when it can wait for a regular dental appointment? 

Our team at K Street Dental & Orthodontic Group in Washington, DC, can answer that question. We perform emergency dentistry for oral health concerns that need to be addressed right away.

Causes of a toothache

Several culprits can cause toothaches, including:

• Cavities
• Gum disease
• Tooth fractures
• Abscesses

Toothaches can also be the result of something as simple as getting food lodged between your teeth. While some tooth pain is temporary and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief, other cases point to deeper problems that need our professional dental care.

Signs your toothache is an emergency

Not all toothaches are emergencies, but red flags that indicate you should have emergency dentistry include:

• Severe, persistent pain that doesn’t go away
• Swelling in your face or jaw
• Fever or signs of infection, such as pus or a foul taste in your mouth
• A cracked or knocked-out tooth
• Bleeding that doesn’t stop
• Pain when biting or chewing that worsens over time

These symptoms may point to a serious infection or abscess. If left untreated, it can spread to other areas of your body and become life-threatening.

When you can wait

If your toothache is mild, comes and goes, or is sensitive to hot or cold foods, you may not have an emergency. But you should still make an appointment with our dental team to have a toothache that’s not urgent checked out. 

A small cavity today can turn into a root canal tomorrow if you ignore it, so schedule a visit with us as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and to prevent further damage.

What to do until you can see our dental team

If you can’t come in immediately, here are a few things you can do to relieve pain and avoid worsening the problem:

• Rinse with warm salt water
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen
• Gently apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek
• Avoid chewing on the affected side
• Keep the area clean
• Avoid sugary or very hot foods

These simple steps can help you manage discomfort until you're able to get our professional dental care.

Don’t wait too long

A toothache is your body’s way of telling you something’s wrong. Whether it’s a minor irritation or a major issue, it’s always best to make an appointment with us at  K Street Dental & Orthodontic Group. When in doubt, call us at 202-315-0856.