What Are Types of Tooth Pain You Shouldn’t Ignore?

Tooth pain can be unbearable for an array of reasons – you bit down too hard, you got hit in the mouth while playing sports, or maybe you just woke up with an intense toothache. 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 Everett.

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.

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.

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 Everett a call so your smile can be restored to full health!

About the Author

Dr. Jason Kaopua earned his dental doctorate from Oregon Health & Sciences University. He has completed advanced training in a wide variety of specialty topics to advance his clinical prowess, including sleep apnea, BOTOX, dental implant placement, Invisalign, Lumineers, soft tissue laser treatment, and more. If you ever require an emergency dentist, Dr. Kaopua offers same-day appointments and multiple sedation options. Schedule an appointment on his website, but if it’s an emergency, call (425) 267-3333.