Sometimes, toothaches go away on their own. However, serious pain requires treatment from an orthodontist in Ocean Springs. McCabe Dental offers diagnoses, treatments, and preventive care to minimize your risk of future infections.
What Causes Toothaches?
Toothaches have several causes, including:
- Cavities
- Injuries
- Infections
- Teeth grinding
- Decay
- Broken fillings
- Gum disease
Plaque build-up makes people more susceptible to infections and decay, so stay on top of regular cleanings at Dr. McCabe Orthodontist.
What Are the Signs of a Dental Emergency?
The Pain Won't Go Away
Your mouth might feel sore after you bite down on a sharp popcorn kernel or tortilla chip, but the pain should recede after a day or two. If the pain continues or gets worse, you might have a serious issue.
The Pain Worsens When You Bite
If your tooth throbs whenever you eat, you might have an abscess or infection at the base of the tooth. Biting down puts pressure on the tooth and triggers the nerve endings.
The Pain Comes with Additional Symptoms
Severe toothaches often cause other symptoms, such as:
- Headaches
- Fever
- Chills
- Bad breath
- Acidic taste
- Gum swelling or soreness
- Earaches
- Sinus pressure
- Hot or cold sensitivity
- Loose tooth
- Cheek swelling
These can signal an infection, so seek treatment as soon as possible. A hospital may prescribe antibiotics until you visit your orthodontist in Ocean Springs.
The Pain is Agonizing
Agonizing pain that makes it impossible to function is a sign that you need immediate dental care. A bacterial infection could enter your bloodstream and reach your brain or heart, causing a life-threatening emergency.
If the pain suddenly hits your jaw and neck, call 911 immediately. This is a sign of potential heart problems.
How Do You Treat a Toothache?
When you arrive at the clinic, we'll discuss your symptoms and evaluate your tooth, then develop a treatment plan. This may include filling a cavity, repairing a damaged filling, prescribing antibiotics, performing a root canal, installing a crown, or removing the tooth.
In the meantime, try the following steps to relieve soreness:
- Brush your teeth with soft bristles
- Floss to remove particles
- Take over-the-counter pain medication
- Apply a cold compress to your cheek
- Rinse your mouth with saltwater
Remember that pain relievers help temporarily, but they're not a cure.
Schedule Your Appointment
Contact Dr. McCabe Orthodontist today for emergency care in Ocean Springs. We also provide general treatment, such as cleanings, bridges, crowns, and root canals, plus cosmetic dentistry. If this is your first visit, bring X-rays from the past six months, patient care forms, and your insurance card.