When Is a Toothache a Dental Emergency?

Your teeth shouldn’t hurt, but some toothaches are more serious than others. Any time you have a toothache, you should talk to your dentist in Jacksonville, FL. Your dentist can help you decide if you’re having a dental emergency and need to be seen on the same day. 

What Causes Toothaches?

Toothaches can be caused by many things. Below are some examples of the reasons your tooth might be aching:

• Cavity. A cavity is an area of tooth decay-causing a pit to form in your tooth enamel. Cavities can cause mild toothaches. While cavities in their early stages are not usually considered a dental emergency, they should be addressed quickly in order to prevent them from spreading. 
• Infection. If a cavity gets deep enough or if a crack in your tooth allows bacteria to enter the center of your tooth, this can lead to a dental infection. Infections often cause severe pain. Dental infections are considered dental emergencies and should be addressed as soon as possible. 
• Chipped or broken tooth. A chipped or broken tooth can cause pain and can lead to problems like dental infections. If you get a chipped tooth or if part of your tooth breaks off, talk to your dental professional. 

When Is a Toothache a Dental Emergency?

Generally speaking, the more severe the pain, the more likely you’re having a dental emergency. Any time you have pain in your tooth, or any time you break off part of your tooth, you should call the dentist to find out next steps. Your dentist can ask you questions about your symptoms and gauge whether you should come in to the dental office now or soon to get treatment. 

How Are Dental Infections Treated?

Dental infections are treated with a procedure called a root canal. Root canals are generally done immediately as soon as it’s discovered that a root canal is needed. During the root canal, the dentist will drill into your tooth, clean out the infection, seal up the tooth, and put a crown on top. 

Do You Have a Severe Toothache? Call the Dentist

If you have a severe toothache, you probably need emergency dental services in Jacksonville, FL. At Mandarin Dentistry, we offer dental emergency services to patients who need them. Call