Toothache is a very triggering and disruptive concern that can cause immediate distress. Even though it can resolve spontaneously, sudden tooth pain can linger for longer duration and become more intense.
Emergency dentists have the expertise to handle these conditions and offer immediate relief to patients through prompt treatment.
Possible Reasons for Sudden Tooth Pain
Sudden tooth pain can be due to multiple reasons. You might have a sense of relief in a few minutes, but it will not always be the case, and the sudden onset will get more excruciating, lasting for an entire day or night, even after taking medications. Possible reasons for sudden toothache are as follows:
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is one of the most common reasons for tooth discomfort. Minor cavities that were ignore initially for too long expose the dentin and pulp tissue inside the tooth, which is sensitive and leads to sudden painful toothache while consuming hot or cold food.
Tooth Abscess
A tooth abscess is an extremely painful condition resulting from infection around the tooth because of seepage of bacteria in the periapical tissue. Abscess pain does not subside until the pus is drain from the tooth, either by a root canal or surgical treatment. It depends on the extent of the abscess formation.
Pericoronitis or Impacted Tooth
This type of pain is associate with the erupting third molar. The area around the erupted tooth becomes inflamed due to food lodgment, leading to sharp, sudden tooth pain.
Fractured Tooth
Biting on hard objects or accidents leads to fracture of the tooth. The broken segment aches even on slight movement and causes sensitivity, requiring immediate attention by the emergency dentist.
Dry Socket
A dry socket is the complication of traumatic extraction or failure to follow postoperative instructions. It is extremely painful and is sudden in onset, usually after 2-3 days of extraction.
Gum Disease
Poor oral hygiene is the root cause of most dental issues. Poor oral hygiene lays down the foundation for bacterial colonies which lead to gum diseases. In more advanced cases, sudden toothache is quite common.
Management of Sudden Tooth Pain
Dental emergencies require prompt treatment. The management of dental emergencies begins with an initial assessment and evaluation of the pain. A visual assessment of any decay or infection by the dentist helps to identify the dental issue and determine the appropriate treatment to follow. For a more detailed examination, dental X-rays provide a clear picture.
Immediate pain relief treatment options include:
Cavity Restorations
Exposure to dentin causes sensitivity in teeth, which induces sudden, painful toothache while consuming food. The restoration of the decayed part of the tooth using dental filling materials covers the exposed dentin and provides relief from pain.
Root Canal Treatment
Sometimes, the decay is too deep and reaches the pulp chamber inside the tooth, leading to pulp infection, i.e., pulpitis. In such instances, dentists administer local anesthesia and then proceed with root canal treatment, which involves removing the infected pulp tissue.
Tooth Extractions
Some teeth are beyond saving and perennially house infection, causing episodes of sudden tooth pain. These teeth need to be remove immediately. Emergency dentists extract the infected tooth under anesthesia, providing instant relief from the pain. The impacted third molar also requires extraction, along with antibiotic follow-up, for the complete elimination of infection.
Abscess Drainage
Toothache accompanied by swelling and abscess formation is relieve by draining the abscess, which requires a small incision at the site of infection. The pus is drain and simultaneous treatment is initiate, focusing on saving the tooth.
Trauma or Fracture Repairs
Traumas to the tooth structure can cause excruciating pain along with other damages that require prompt attention to prevent future complications. A knocked-out tooth can often be place back into the socket if the time limit and specific instructions are follow. In cases of fractures, the mobile fracture segment is typically remove, and a root canal or filling is recommend to restore the tooth structure, follow by crown placement.
Scaling and Root Planing
Gum diseases, which result from poor oral hygiene, require the removal of plaque and tartar from the tooth surface. A professional cleaning removes the buildup of bacteria from the gums and relieves pain.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics can be prescribed either before or after treatment. They help reduce the bacterial load and eliminate the infection.
Painkillers
Over-the-counter painkillers are always recommended alongside the treatment procedure. These painkillers help in subsiding the symptoms and provide immediate pain relief.
Follow-up Appointments
Your emergency dentist might ask for follow-up visits to ensure that the treatment has positive outcomes and that the tooth is healing properly. This helps in planning future treatments that might be needed to complete the restoration of oral health and function.
Conclusion
Sudden tooth pain often results from a long-standing infection caused by poor oral hygiene and neglect. To prevent such painful episodes and maintain optimal oral health, it’s crucial to visit your dentist regularly.
In case of a dental emergency, seek immediate care from a dentist to quickly address the issue and relieve your pain. Our professionals are equipped to alleviate symptoms and effectively remove infections to restore your dental health.
Experience prompt and effective care from our emergency dentists at Osseo Dental Clinic. Our highly skilled and experienced team is dedicated to handling dental emergencies with precision and compassion.
Don’t wait for discomfort to escalate—schedule an appointment with our experts today and take the first step toward a healthier smile. Connect with us at (763) 425-2626 or visit us at 30 Central Ave., Osseo, MN 55369. Your well-being is our priority!