Trying to determine whether you need to visit your nearest emergency dentist in Irving or wait your tooth pain out at home can be a difficult decision to make. Not all types of dental pain necessitate a same-day emergency appointment, but some most definitely do. So, how do you tell what you should do? Read on to learn about three common types of tooth pain and what they could mean for your oral health.
Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
If you’re experiencing an unexpected burst of discomfort whenever you eat a popsicle, drink a glass of ice water, or sip or eat anything that’s hot or cold, you should still see a dentist, but you may not need same-day care. While your sensitivity may be easily treatable with a special sensitivity-friendly toothpaste that you can purchase from a store, other issues can also cause this type of tooth pain.
If your sensitivity is more persistent, you may have a small cavity that needs to be treated or a damaged restoration, like a worn-down filling. Other more serious concerns that could cause sensitivity include gum disease or a broken tooth. When you visit your dentist in a timely manner, you can prevent the pain or problem from becoming worse.
Dull & Persistent Aching Feeling
If your tooth pain isn’t severe or sharp, but it’s still making you uncomfortable, it could be due to something stuck between the teeth or a side-effect of a habit called bruxism, better known as teeth grinding. Tooth pain caused by bruxism may not require same-day care, but it’s still a good idea to call your dentist to schedule an examination to learn more and possibly get a nightguard. If something is stuck between your teeth, try to gently dislodge it with dental floss. If you’re unable to, call your dentist!
Severe Sharp or Throbbing Tooth Pain
If your tooth pain feels like a sharp, jabbing pain or a throbbing pain that makes it difficult to sleep or focus, you should contact your emergency dentist in Irving right away. They will do their best to schedule a same-day examination for you in an effort to get you out of pain as soon as possible. In some cases, root canal treatment or a tooth extraction may be warranted. Or, if your pain is due to a more advanced cavity, a simple filling may be all that’s needed. Your dentist’s top priority will be to preserve your natural tooth by making it healthy again!
If you’re ever in doubt about whether you need to reach out to an emergency dentist, the best decision to make is to just give them a call. The front desk staff will be able to guide you through first aid and they can help you determine whether you need to be seen either the same or next day. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
About the Author
Dr. Rafiq Hirji has over 10 years of experience and has helped hundreds of patients get out of pain as quickly as possible by providing timely emergency dental care. His extensive training and hands-on expertise allow him to diagnose and treat most issues in-house for the convenience of his patients. If you’re experiencing tooth pain and would like to schedule an emergency appointment, visit Daily Smiles MacArthur Dental & Orthodontics’ website or call 972-546-4114.