When Is a Toothache More Than a Toothache? A Guide To Dental Emergencies

Toothaches are common, but not all tooth pain is equal. Sometimes, a toothache is just the result of something simple, like a piece of food stuck between your teeth or sensitivity from a temperature change.

However, sometimes, a toothache can be the sign of something more serious, potentially requiring urgent dental care. Knowing when to ask for our help is key to preventing further damage and ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the signs that a toothache might be more than just a toothache and when it’s time to treat it as a dental emergency.

What Is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate attention from a dentist to avoid permanent damage, alleviate severe pain, or prevent the spread of infection. 

While minor toothaches can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and proper oral hygiene, certain symptoms should never be ignored. In these cases, acting quickly could save your tooth — or even your health.

Signs Your Toothache Might Be a Dental Emergency

Severe, Persistent Pain

A mild, occasional toothache is usually manageable with some pain relief, but intense and constant pain could indicate something more serious, like an infection, abscess, or damaged nerve.

Call us if the pain doesn't subside within a few hours or gets worse. Sudden, sharp pain may mean you have a deep cavity or cracked tooth requiring urgent care.

Swelling in the Face or Gums

Swelling around your tooth, face, or jaw is a sign of infection. An abscess (a pocket of pus) can develop, causing swelling, fever, and tenderness.

This swelling can sometimes be accompanied by a bad taste or a foul smell from the affected tooth. An untreated infection can spread, so visiting us promptly is essential. 

Bleeding Gums

While occasional bleeding may be due to vigorous brushing or flossing, regular or excessive bleeding from the gums around a tooth may indicate gum disease or an injury.

If you notice bleeding without any apparent cause, or if it persists after brushing, it’s essential to visit us to rule out conditions like periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

Trauma to the Tooth or Jaw

Accidents happen, and teeth can get knocked out or fractured. If you’ve experienced any kind of trauma to the face or mouth, visit us immediately. 

For knocked-out teeth, the sooner you see us, the better the chance of saving the tooth. If you can, gently rinse the tooth and place it back in the socket (if possible), or store it in a milk or saline solution container while you get here. 

What to Do If You Have a Dental Emergency

If you suspect you have a dental emergency, act quickly. Here are some steps to take:

Contact Us

Call us right away and explain your symptoms.  Our experienced team will guide you through the next steps.

Pain Management

In the meantime, we may recommend taking over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, to manage pain. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums, as it can cause irritation. 

A cold compress applied to the outside of your cheek can help reduce swelling and numb the area temporarily.

Prevent Further Damage

If you’ve lost a tooth, try to recover it and handle it by the crown (the top part) rather than the root. If it’s possible, place the tooth back in its socket or store it in milk, a saline solution, or even the patient’s saliva until you can get here. 

For a broken or cracked tooth, avoid chewing on the affected side and try to cover sharp edges with a piece of dental wax or sugar-free gum until you can see a professional.

Stay Calm

Dental emergencies can be frightening, but staying calm is important. Taking the right steps and seeking our help quickly can often lead to the best possible outcome for your oral health. Take deep breaths and look for distractions to take your mind off any discomfort or worrying thoughts. 

Dental Emergencies in Sheffield

Not every toothache is an emergency, but sometimes it’s important to visit us promptly. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on caution and call us. Ignoring potential dental emergencies can lead to more complicated, painful, and expensive treatments down the road.

If you experience severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or any of the other symptoms mentioned, contact us to book your emergency appointment.

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