Many people believe an occasional toothache is normal, but it’s never a good sign. Often, it can indicate an infection within the tooth. If you’ve had an infected scratch on your finger or leg, it likely went away on its own, but the same thing won’t happen with your tooth. Although it may not seem alarming, an untreated tooth infection can have potentially deadly results. Here’s why you don’t want to ignore a toothache.
What’s Behind the Pain?
Not all toothaches are the same or caused by the same problem. While some aches can be caused by something minor, like a cavity, others can result from a serious issue, such as an infection. Your dentist will learn more about your pain and examine your mouth to find the culprit, which may include:
- Decay: The most common cause of a minor toothache is a cavity. It can be resolved quickly using a dental filling. If you wait too long, bacteria can infect the inner layer of your tooth. Not only can this lead to pain but also the loss of your tooth.
- Gum Disease: An infection in the gum tissue can cause the soft tissue to pull away from the teeth. When treated in the early stages, a deep cleaning can restore your gum health and stop your pain. Ignoring it can cause your tooth to die and the infection can enter your bloodstream.
- Cracked Tooth: A crack in a tooth isn’t always obvious, but even hairline fractures can cause pain. Bacteria can enter the crack without any treatment, compromising your oral and general health.
- Abscess: An infection often occurs after an untreated dental problem has progressed in severity. It can lead to significant pain and tooth loss. It can also have serious consequences for your general health. Your dentist can treat the infection to safeguard your mouth and body from additional complications.
- Underlying Condition: Several underlying oral and medical conditions can cause toothaches. A toothache can indicate a minor problem, like a TMJ disorder. However, some dental pain can be a sign of something more serious, such as a heart attack.
Don’t Ignore Any Toothache
Although various factors can cause dental pain, you don’t want to ignore your discomfort. In most situations, all you will need is a simple restorative treatment, like a filling or crown. While the source of your discomfort can be minor, it can also be a sign of cardiovascular disease or heart attack. Not all toothaches are a symptom of a heart attack, but you don’t take the risk, especially if you are light-headed or sweating.
Pay attention to how you’re feeling to ensure your toothache isn’t accompanied by other issues. If you’re unsure, your emergency dentist is only a phone call away. They will help make a difficult situation a little easier.
About Dr. Caitlyn Le
Dr. Le earned her dental degree at the Texas A&M College of Dentistry, where she was inducted into the Odonatological Honor Society. She maintains the highest standards for dental care using advanced solutions. If you need an emergency dentist, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.