There is no feeling quite like a toothache. The pain can become so intense that it brings on fever or vomiting. Other times, however, the pain is minimal and very manageable. It may only be a nuisance when eating certain foods. When is Tooth Pain in Lufkin TX considered a dental emergency? There are few things to keep in mind before rushing to the dentist.
The Toothache Comes and Goes
Most toothaches begin after a stimulus aggravates the tooth. This usually occurs after eating or drinking something that is very cold. It may also be brought on while brushing your teeth. The pain usually ceases after the aggravating source is removed. For these cases, an immediate trip to the dentist is not needed. However, it is still advised for people dealing with intermittent tooth pain to speak with their dentist at their earliest convenience. It could be something as simple as sensitive teeth, or the pain may be the result of a growing cavity.
The Pain Wakes You Up in the Middle of the Night
Minor tooth pain doesn’t interfere with daily activities. However, if the pain is so severe that it wakes you up from a deep sleep, there is probably an infection brewing. Bacterial infections occur when teeth become compromised due to decay or injury. The bacteria will travel down the tooth until it reaches the nerve. If it is not treated immediately, it may even enter the bloodstream. This is considered a dental emergency. Applying cloves to the affected tooth is something you can try here to reduce the pain before the dentist sees you. A root canal may be needed to save the tooth.
The Tooth Hurts After Eating Something Hot
While teeth that are sensitive react painfully to cold substances, it is never normal for a tooth to become painful after encountering something hot. If your tooth throbs after eating or drinking something that has a high temperature, it is a sign that the nerve is dying. Once the nerve completely dies, the tooth will become vulnerable to bacteria and disease. The sooner you are able to see the dentist, the better chance you have to save the tooth. The most common treatments are root canal therapy and extraction.
Tooth Pain in Lufkin TX in something that should always be taken seriously. Even if the pain isn’t constant, it is best to make an appointment with your dentist right away.
