toothache-pain-relief

Toothache Pain Relief

Not every dental issue is a dental emergency. For example, a mild toothache is probably not an immediate emergency, but a toothache pain consisting of severe pain, or any swelling or bleeding is definitely a dental emergency and you should see Dr. Caye and his team at Premier Dental in Lee’s Summit for toothache pain RELIEF!! Call us right away at 816-600-6330 for an emergency appointment or for a preventative dental appointment to help avoid toothaches in the future.

A toothache can be considered a dental emergency for several reasons, as it may indicate an underlying issue that requires prompt attention from a dentist. Here are common reasons why a toothache is often considered a dental emergency:

  1. Severe Pain:

    Intense and persistent tooth pain can significantly impact your quality of life. The severity of the pain may indicate an acute dental problem that requires immediate attention to alleviate discomfort.
  2. Infection or Abscess:

    Toothaches can be a sign of an infection or dental abscess. These conditions can lead to swelling, pus formation, and the spread of bacteria to other parts of the body. Immediate treatment is crucial to prevent the infection from worsening and causing systemic health issues.
  3. Swelling and Inflammation:

    Swelling around the tooth or in the surrounding gums is a common sign of infection or inflammation. Swelling can be painful and may affect your ability to eat or speak. It can also be a sign of a dental abscess that requires urgent attention.
  4. Fever and General Discomfort:

    If a toothache is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, headache, or general malaise, it may indicate a more systemic infection. In such cases, seeking prompt dental care is essential to address the underlying issue and prevent the spread of infection.
  5. Difficulty Eating or Drinking:

    A toothache that makes it difficult to eat or drink can lead to nutritional issues and dehydration. Prompt dental intervention is necessary to identify and address the cause of the pain, allowing you to resume normal eating and drinking habits.
  6. Trauma or Injury:

    If a toothache is the result of trauma or injury to the mouth, such as a chipped or cracked tooth, immediate dental care is needed to assess and address the damage. Quick intervention can improve the chances of saving the affected tooth.
  7. Persistent Pain Despite Home Remedies:

    If over-the-counter pain relievers and home remedies provide only temporary relief, it may indicate an underlying dental issue that requires professional evaluation and treatment.
  8. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold:

    Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, especially if it is sudden and severe, may be a sign of various dental problems, including decay, infection, or a cracked tooth. A dentist can diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
  9. Painful Gums or Jaw:

    Pain in the gums or jaw, especially when associated with a specific tooth, may be indicative of an underlying dental issue. It is important to address these symptoms promptly to prevent further complications.
  10. Prevention of Complications:

    Addressing a toothache promptly helps prevent potential complications, such as the spread of infection, damage to adjacent teeth, and the need for more extensive and costly dental procedures.

If you are experiencing a toothache, especially one accompanied by severe pain, swelling, or other concerning symptoms, it is important to contact your dental team at Premier Dental as soon as possible to schedule an emergency appointment. Early intervention can help diagnose and treat the underlying cause of pain, providing toothache pain relief and preventing further complications.

Related Article: Painful Dental Emergency: Get OUT OF PAIN in Lee’s Summit, MO

What is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is when an accident or emergency affects your mouth, teeth, and/or gum areas. Dental emergencies are serious, and the best option is to see your dentist quickly to resolve the issue. If you’re unsure if you’re dealing with a dental emergency, ask yourself these questions:

  • Have you lost a tooth?
  • Are you bleeding from the mouth?
  • Are you experiencing major swelling in the face or mouth?
  • Do you have a loose tooth/teeth?
  • Do you have an infection?

Extreme toothache pain with swelling, or bleeding should be treated as a dental emergency because timely intervention can alleviate pain, prevent the spread of infection, avoid complications, and increase the chances of preserving teeth and overall oral health. If you experience such symptoms, it is essential to seek prompt attention from a dentist.

Learn more through this Helpful Dental Emergency FAQ from Mouth Healthy

Dental Emergency: What do I do??

  • Toothache: Until you can see your dentist, try rinsing your mouth with warm water and floss gently around the area of discomfort. This may loosen any food that is lodged. Over-the-counter pain medication or a cold compress can also help with pain. If you’re unsure if your toothache is an emergency, give us a call and we can help you get toothache relief!
  • Missing Filling or Broken Crown: Having a filling that is missing can make the changes of a chipped or cracked tooth much greater because the tooth isn’t being properly supported. If a dental crown falls off or completely breaks, it leaves your tooth very vulnerable. Schedule with us quickly to possibly avoid a root canal or extraction.
  • A Knocked-Out Tooth: If your tooth is knocked-out, there’s no question about it – you’re definitely dealing with a dental emergency. If it’s completely knocked-out, grab the tooth by the crown (not the root) and call your dentist immediately. You can keep the tooth moist in a glass of milk until you see your dentist. The best chance of saving the tooth would be seeing your dentist within 30 minutes to one hour after the accident.
  • Bleeding or Swollen Gums: Some minor bleeding or irritation here and there is usually just fine and not concerning. However, if your gums won’t stop bleeding and is accompanied with swelling, it can often mean there’s an underlying health or dental issue that needs to be addressed.
  • An Abscess: These often look similar to a pimple on your gums and are usually very painful. This means that your gum tissue or tooth is infected, and you need to see your dentist right away. Your dentist will often treat with antibiotics. Do not try and pop the pimple, but you can rinse with warm salt water.
  • Exposed Nerves: Exposed nerves can be very painful, so see your dentist ASAP to avoid prolonging any intense pain.

Handling Emergencies: Emergency Dental Care: What’s Considered a Dental Emergency?

9 Ways to Prevent Toothaches

Tooth decay causes most toothaches, so following a good oral hygiene routine can prevent most toothaches.

Consistently good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Here are the key components:

  1. Regular Brushing:
    • Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and before bedtime.
    • Use a fluoride toothpaste to help prevent tooth decay and strengthen enamel.
    • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and replace it every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
  2. Proper Brushing Technique:
    • Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums.
    • Use short, gentle strokes, focusing on cleaning each tooth’s surface, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces.
    • Don’t forget to brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
  3. Flossing:
    • Floss daily to clean between teeth and remove plaque and food particles.
    • Use proper flossing technique, gently guiding the floss between teeth and curving it around each tooth in a C-shape.
  4. Mouthwash:
    • Consider using an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash to help reduce bacteria and strengthen teeth.
    • Use mouthwash as directed, and don’t replace it as a substitute for brushing and flossing.
  5. Healthy Diet:
    • Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products.
    • Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages, as they can contribute to tooth decay and erosion.
  6. Limit Snacking:
    • Frequent snacking, especially on sugary or acidic foods, can contribute to tooth decay. If you snack, choose healthy options and rinse your mouth with water afterward.
  7. Stay Hydrated:
    • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush away bacteria and debris, and to maintain optimal saliva production.
  8. Regular Dental Checkups:
    • Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist. Professional cleanings can remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing may miss.
    • Your dentist can also identify and address any oral health issues early on.
  9. Quit Smoking:
    • If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease and can contribute to other oral health issues.
  10. Protect Your Teeth:
    • Wear a mouthguard if you play contact sports to protect your teeth from injury.
    • Avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bite on hard objects.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can maintain good oral hygiene, prevent dental problems, and contribute to your overall health. Regular dental visits to your toothache pain dentist, Dr. Caye, and his team at Premier Dental in Lee’s Summit are crucial for professional assessment and toothache pain relief when needed.

We Provide Same-Day Emergency Services

Your Dental Pain is Our TOP Priority … call us today at 816-660-6330

If you are suffering from a painful dental emergency, we offer Emergency Dental Appointments, because we know they are more than just an everyday dental issue. If you’re dealing with pain or injury, it’s important to be seen right away. Our philosophy on dental emergencies is very simple “If you need toothache pain relief or another type of dental emergency, you are first in line… PERIOD.” Our office in Lee’s Summit, MO is open Monday through Thursday from 8:30AM – 5:30PM and Fridays from 9:30AM – 3:30PM. We are willing to come in early, stay late, and even work through lunch to get you in, treated and comfortable. We look forward to hearing from you.

Dr. Stephan Caye and his friendly, experienced team at Premier Dental offer affordable family dentistry and gentle dental care in the Lee’s Summit, MO area. Our office is conveniently located off of Highway 50 and SE Blue Parkway. We offer appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At Premier Dental, we provide most dental health services, from family and general dentistry to specialty procedures, including dental implants, dentures, endodontic or root canal treatment, teeth whitening, cosmetic dentistry, emergency dental care and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Please call us at (816) 600-6330 to schedule an appointment.

painful-dental-emergency

Toothaches, or any kind of ache really, are never fun to experience. We thought we’d take a look at some common dental emergencies and the importance of seeing your dentist if you may be experiencing any toothaches, oral pain or are suffering from a painful dental emergency. Remember, if you’re overdue for a dental appointment, call us today to get that scheduled and stay on top of your oral health, which can help avoid some dental emergencies in the future.

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