There’s nothing like an aggravating toothache to ruin your mood! Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them; and they often occur when it’s especially inconvenient. That said, how do you know when your pain is serious enough to warrant a trip to your dentist? Keep reading to learn more about seven toothache symptoms that you shouldn’t ignore and why visiting your dentist promptly is a wise move.
1. Sharp Pain
Pain is usually one of the first indications that something isn’t right inside of your mouth. If you’re experiencing throbbing and persistent pain, visit your dentist without delay. Sharp pain is often associated with cavities, but sometimes abscessed teeth can also cause painful infections.
2. Hypersensitivity
Sensitivity often accompanies pain, but it can be caused by a variety of different things. One of the most common causes is bruxism, which when patients unconsciously clench or grind their teeth, usually at nighttime. However, hypersensitivity can also be indicative of a cavity, especially if hot or cold temperatures are causing extra discomfort.
3. Swollen Glands
If your jawline or neck appears swollen, it could mean that the problem has spread beyond your tooth! If you’re experiencing an abscessed tooth combined with swollen glands, your other bodily organs are also potentially at risk. Seek treatment as quickly as possible to prevent further complications.
4. Loose Teeth
If your teeth seem loose due to a toothache, it might be the result of advanced gum disease. Even though gum disease is preventable and treatable, it’s important to catch it early on before it has time to ravage your mouth! Seeking treatment quickly will give you the best chance of keeping those teeth from falling out!
5. Odd Discoloration
Your teeth can become stained and discolored over time, especially if you regularly consume things like coffee, wine, and tea. However, this staining can usually be addressed with various whitening treatments. But if your teeth are beginning to change in color from yellow to dark brown or grey, there could be an underlying problem that needs to be addressed. Sometimes the pulp of your tooth can die and become infected which will cause discoloration; this needs immediate treatment!
6. Swollen or Bleeding Gums
It’s natural for your gums to bleed and swell up from time to time, but if it’s happening often and is paired with a toothache, you should see your dentist. This could be a sign of early gum disease and should be addressed quickly.
7. Bad Breath and Taste
An abscessed or infected tooth can cause constant bad breath or a lingering foul taste that is far worse than your average case of morning breath! Toxins are being emitted from the tooth itself, meaning that it must be treated to solve the issue.
Tooth pain isn’t something that you should have to live with chronically; your teeth are too important to allow them to suffer needlessly! If you’re experiencing any of these tooth-ache related symptoms, visit your dentist quickly to ensure that a serious complication cannot develop.
About the Author
Dr. James K. Kramer is proud to serve patients and families in the Selbyville area! Dr. Kramer received his dental doctorate from the Temple University School of Dentistry and is a member of several professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the Delaware State Dental Society. He is also a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, a prestigious honor achieved by fewer than 5% of all dentists in the US. His practice is pleased to offer many available services including several preventive treatment options. To schedule a visit, please reach out online or by phone at (302) 436-5133.