If you’ve ever bitten down too hard, been hit in the mouth while playing sports, or woken up due to a toothache, you know that tooth pain can be unbearable at times. If you experience any of the toothache symptoms or other issues discussed below, you should act instead of ignoring the discomfort. Read on to learn what problems necessitate you should call your emergency dentist in Rolling Meadows.
Sensitivity
If a tooth begins to hurt or the pain level rises, you may have bruxism. This condition results from someone clenching or grinding their teeth, usually at night while they are sleeping. If your tooth suddenly becomes more sensitive to extreme temperatures or when you are eating something containing sugar, it could indicate that you have a cavity.
Tooth Discoloration
Staining and discoloration of teeth happen naturally with age or due to a variety of other factors. But if one or more teeth are changing colors amid a prolonged toothache, there could be an active infection and the tooth pulp is at risk of dying. The presence of pus is an indication of infection.
Swollen Glands
When an infected tooth coincides with swollen glands, infection is potentially spreading to other parts of the body. Since your vital organs could become involved, this is a potentially life-threatening situation. Seek medical attention immediately.
Loose Tooth
If a toothache results in a loose tooth, it’s a strong indication of a problem. It could mean late-stage periodontal disease. Time is of the essence for your dentist to attempt to save your tooth and stop the infection.
Gum Tissue Is Bloody or Swollen
Bleeding and swelling can happen in your mouth sometimes, but if they occur in conjunction with a toothache, it could indicate periodontal disease. This can develop because of poor oral hygiene or other issues. On a positive note, early-onset gum disease can be treated if it is caught soon enough.
Bad Breath or Taste
When you have bad breath that won’t go away or a constant unpleasant taste, these are potential symptoms of an abscessed tooth. When a tooth gets infected, toxins are released, and it can cause these issues.
Intense Pain
If you feel sharp tooth pain that seems to increase in intensity over time, consider that you might have a cavity. Feeling pain when you bite down on something is a strong indicator. When a cavity is left unchecked, the tooth can become infected. Over the long term, it could require a root canal or extraction when a small filling would’ve addressed the problem earlier in the process.
While some are more urgent than others, all these symptoms indicate a developing problem in your mouth that needs dental attention. Don’t wait to give your dentist in Rolling Meadows a call so your smile can be restored to full health!
About the Author
Dr. Ye Wang earned her dental doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania. She enjoys being able to make every patient feel welcomed and respected while receiving exceptional dental services. If you ever face a dental emergency due to tooth pain or another issue, she offers same-day appointments. Schedule one on her website or by calling (847) 221-5860.