Tooth pain can be unbearable at times. If you’ve ever bitten down too hard, been hit in the mouth while playing sports, or woken up due to a toothache, it is a tough situation to endure. If you experience any of the toothache symptoms or other issues discussed below, you should act instead of ignoring them. Read on to learn what problems necessitate you should call your emergency dentist in St. Augustine.
Swollen Glands
When an infected tooth coincides with swollen glands, infection is potentially spreading to other parts of the body. Since your vital organs could become involved, this is may be a life-threatening situation. Seek medical attention immediately.
Tooth Discoloration
Staining and discoloration of teeth happen naturally with age or due to a variety of other factors. But if one or more teeth are changing colors amid a prolonged toothache, there could be an active infection and the tooth pulp is at risk of dying. The presence of pus is an indication of infection.
Sensitivity
If a tooth begins to hurt or the pain level rises, you may have bruxism. This condition results from someone clenching or grinding their teeth, usually at night while they are sleeping. If your tooth suddenly becomes more sensitive to extreme temperatures or when you are eating something containing sugar, it could indicate you have a cavity.
Intense Pain
If you feel a sharp pain that seems to increase in intensity over time, consider that you might have a cavity. Feeling pain when you bite down on something is a strong indicator. When a cavity is left unchecked, the tooth can become infected. Over time, the tooth could require a root canal or extraction when a small filling would’ve addressed the problem earlier in the process.
Bad Breath or Taste
When you have bad breath that won’t go away or a constant unpleasant taste, these are potential symptoms of an abscessed tooth. When a tooth gets infected, toxins are released, and it can cause these symptoms.
Gum Tissue Is Bloody or Swollen
Bleeding and swelling can happen in your mouth sometimes, but if they occur in conjunction with a toothache, it could indicate periodontal disease. This can develop because of poor oral hygiene or other issues. On a positive note, early-onset gum disease can be treated if it is caught soon enough.
Loose Tooth
If a toothache results in a loose tooth, it’s a strong indication of a problem. It could mean late-stage periodontal disease. Time is of the essence for your dentist to attempt to save your tooth and stop the infection.
While some are more urgent than others, all these symptoms indicate a developing problem in your mouth that needs dental attention. Don’t wait to give your St. Augustine dentist a call so that your smile can be restored to full health!
About the Practice
At Salt Run Family Dentistry, our caring staff strives to ensure you have a pleasant experience. We offer an array of services and are proud to be a dental practice that is locally owned and operated instead of dictated by a corporation. That ensures you get the one-on-one care you deserve, and your dental needs will be taken seriously. If tooth pain or another problem ever makes you feel like you need an emergency dentist, we’ll be ready to help. We offer sedation dentistry, and you can schedule a same-day appointment on our website or by calling (904) 824-3540.