How an Emergency Dentist Will Treat a Toothache

by | Aug 15, 2020 | Uncategorized

emergency dentist Chandler, AZ

In most situations, a general or family dentist can alleviate the symptoms of a toothache, but sometimes, an emergency dentist may need to get involved. Though most toothaches are not a cause for immediate concern, some may indicate a more serious and potentially dangerous dental condition. In these cases, a person may not be able to wait for a next-day dental appointment or for the offices to open back up after the weekend. These are situations in which it would be helpful to have the contact information of an emergency dentist.

Toothache symptoms that may warrant a trip to the emergency dentist

It may be difficult for an individual to tell when a toothache is a cause for immediate concern and when it can wait until the next business day. While sharp pain, sensitivity, bad breath, bad taste in the mouth, and bleeding and swollen gums are normal signs of a toothache, others are not. Below are a few symptoms that may be indicative of a larger problem:

  • Severe swelling of the face or jaw, which is a key indicator that the infection is spreading
  • Swollen glands, which may be signs of a dental abscess
  • Wheezing, a persistent cough, or coughing up blood
  • Shortness of breath, lightheadedness, chest pain, or other signs of a heart attack
  • Trouble swallowing or breathing, which are both signs of lung cancer

If a patient develops any of these signs, immediate treatment may be necessary.

How an emergency dentist will treat a toothache

How a dentist will treat a toothache depends on the root cause of it. To determine this, the dentist may take X-rays and perform a physical exam. If the toothache is the result of decay, the professional will remove the decayed tooth in part or in its entirety. They will then fill the space with appropriate filling material, such as a composite filling, bonding material, or a crown. In extreme cases, the decayed tooth may require surgical removal.

To prevent further infection and possible complications, the dentist may prescribe an antibiotic. To help with pain relief, the dentist may recommend over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen.

If the dentist cannot determine the cause of the toothache, the patient may receive a referral to another health professional. Some toothaches are caused not by a dental issue but rather by heart disease, a heart attack, or a lung condition.

Relieving toothache pain at home

If the symptoms of tooth pain are not alarming, a person may be able to wait until the next business day to visit a family or general dentist. In the meantime, they can achieve pain relief by taking OTC NSAIDs, applying an OTC topical pain relief cream, applying clove oil to the affected area, or taking an OTC decongestant.

Conclusion

If you believe the cause of a toothache is more serious than a standard dental issue, do not wait to seek treatment. An emergency dentist is available to provide treatment or guidance and to grant much-needed peace of mind.

Request an appointment here: https://canyonstatedental.com or call Canyon State Dental at (480) 581-6633 for an appointment in our Chandler office.

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