Have a Toothache? Here’s What to Know

A toothache can be a sign of a serious problem, and delaying treatment for a toothache can lead to big problems. If you have a toothache, taking swift action is important. Your dentist in Chardon, OH can help. At Center Street Dental, we offer a range of services that can help our patients get the care they need when they have a toothache.

What Causes Toothaches?

There are many problems that can cause toothaches. Some of the potential reasons you might be experiencing a toothache include:

  1. Cracked or broken tooth. Sometimes, cracks in the tooth enamel or broken tooth enamel can cause problems like toothache.
  2. Cavity. A cavity is a pit in the tooth caused by tooth decay. Cavities can cause mild pain and discomfort.
  3. Infection. Infection inside the tooth can cause severe pain that only gets worse when you ignore it. Dental infections are an emergency and should be treated as soon as possible.
  4. Wisdom tooth. Your wisdom tooth or wisdom teeth can cause your teeth to become crowded, cavities to form, and other painful conditions.

What Should You Do If You Have a Toothache?

If you have a toothache, it’s important to contact your dentist as soon as possible. The dentist at Center Street Dental may ask you about your symptoms to determine whether you’re having a dental emergency.

What Are the Signs of a Dental Infection?

You may have a hard time telling whether you have a dental infection, but here’s what to look for:

  • Severe pain, either when brushing your teeth, when eating or drinking, or at random.
  • Swelling around the affected tooth.
  • Sudden tooth sensitivity.
  • Bad breath that doesn’t go away when you brush your teeth.

You may also notice discoloration on your tooth enamel or a hole in your teeth.

What Happens When You Delay Care for a Toothache?

If you have a dental infection and put off treatment, you could lose your permanent tooth. A dental infection should be eliminated with a root canal. If the infection spreads, the dentist may need to extract your tooth.

If you have severe tooth pain, you probably need emergency dental care in Chardon, OH. Call Center Street Dental today for an emergency dental visit.