A study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association in 2014 found that toothaches were the most prevalent dental problem, estimating that 26% of adults in the United States experience them in a six-month timespan. People put off visiting an emergency dentist in Lincoln for a variety of reasons—cost, fear of the dentist, not wanting to hear bad news. While all of these are valid, the truth is that ignoring a toothache can be deadly given certain circumstances. Read on to learn how a seemingly common problem like a toothache could turn into a life-threatening issue.
What Causes Toothaches?
There are several different issues that could lead to a toothache developing, including a cracked or broken tooth, an untreated cavity, gum disease, or an infection that has reached the center of a tooth. Minimal damage can typically be treated with minor procedures, but when the problem is left to worsen, more thorough treatment may be necessary. In any of these cases, the first step should always be to contact an emergency dentist to reduce the chances of losing a tooth and keep an infection from spreading and impacting surrounding teeth.
Can a Tooth Infection Spread?
If the cause of the toothache is due to an infection that has burrowed its way into the inner chamber where the pulp (a collection of connective tissue and nerves) is located, it’s possible that it can spread to the teeth next to it or into the bloodstream– this is the situation in which a toothache can become fatal. Some signs that the infection has spread to other parts of the body include:
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Face swelling
- Dehydration
- Increased heart rate
- Stomach pain
Once you begin experiencing these symptoms, the solution may not be as easy as a trip to the dental office. Visiting your local emergency room can ensure that your vitals are stable and your fever is under control. Then, once you are stabilized, you can see a dental specialist for treatment.
How Will an Emergency Dentist Treat a Toothache?
The treatment that your emergency dentist recommends for your toothache will depend on the underlying cause of it. For example, if your pain is caused by a cavity that hasn’t compromised your dental structure, they may be able to fix the problem with a simple filling. If the pulp is affected, you may require a root canal or tooth extraction. All of this is dependent on what your dentist finds when they examine your mouth and X-rays.
Even though the thought of receiving bad news at the emergency dentist can be anxiety-inducing, not having your toothache examined could lead to much bigger issues. When you invest in your dental and physical health by acknowledging and receiving treatment for your pain, it can not only save your smile, but also your life.
About the Author
Dr. Steven Shaffer graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical Center with high distinction in 2005 and enjoys providing comfortable, evidence-based dentistry. He is passionate about helping his patients feel comfortable and well cared for, and with decades of experience and expertise under his belt, his patients trust that they’re in good hands. To schedule an emergency dental appointment or learn more about our services, visit South Ridge Dental’s website or call 402-480-6199.