There are few things worse than mouth pain. It affects everything you do: eating and talking, and even breathing and sleeping can be affected. Mouth pain and toothaches can start mild and quickly turn into unbearable pain that prevent us from our day to day activities. This may be a sign you need emergency dental care. There are many different types of toothaches with different causes. Being able to tell the difference can help you save money and manage your
pain.
Some toothaches, if left untreated, can become big problems in a short amount of time. Dealing with mouth pain early can help prevent the need for expensive procedures. The surest way to tell the causes of toothaches is to have a dentist examine you.
Here are some signs that you need emergency dental care.
Are You Bleeding?
Do you see blood in the sink after you brush your teeth? Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease. Other signs of gum disease are noticing bad breath when you floss your teeth and achy or swollen gums.
Early gum disease treatment is vital to stop it from becoming more severe. Gum disease starts as gingivitis and can turn into periodontal disease. It can be difficult to restore your teeth’s health if that happens. See your dentist immediately if you notice these symptoms so they can develop a treatment plan specifically for you.
Have You Suddenly Lost a Tooth or Teeth?
Losing a tooth can be a very painful experience as an adult. Not only is it physically painful, it can impact your confidence when you talk or smile. If you unexpectedly lose a tooth because of an accident or other trauma, contact your dentist immediately. They can give you instructions on how to possibly save your tooth. Ideally, a dentist can secure the tooth back in, otherwise they will discuss other options to restore your smile, which could include implants.
Do You Have a Swollen Mouth or Jaw?
A swollen jaw or mouth can be caused by a few different things like swollen lymph nodes, infection, or cancer. A swollen mouth can even be caused by severe gum disease. If you have a
swollen jaw, don’t wait it out! Call your dentist immediately for diagnosis and treatment.
Does Your Mouth Taste Like Metal?
If your mouth starts tasting like metal or pennies, you may have a filling or crown that has dislodged. Losing protective fillings and crowns leave these areas more vulnerable to infections or cavities. If your filling or crown dislodges, it is important to see the dentist as soon as possible to correct it.
Are You Experiencing Persistent Pain?
In severe cases, you may experience extreme pain that radiates to your jaw, neck, and ear. The pain may get worse when you lie down and affect your sleep. You may even have throbbing in your mouth or facial swelling. This could be an infection that needs immediate attention. Don’t wait to call your dentist.
Do You Have a Growth or Sore?
You should see a dentist immediately if you notice a growth or sore in your mouth. It could be an early sign of oral cancer. Early treatment can prevent it from developing to later stages.
To know if you need emergency dentistry, call Jonny Fisher DDS at (509) 383-8300 to reach our office in Pullman, Washington.
