Blog Post

Because tooth pain can stem from so many sources, it can be difficult to determine what’s behind it and when you should seek emergency dental care. 

Generally, if it’s a dull ache, you can wait until our normal business hours to get in and see Sandi E. Silva, DDS. But there are some instances in which your severe toothache makes it worth seeking out emergency dentistry, which Dr. Silva offers here at our office in Tustin, California.

Use these tips to help you determine if you should make a traditional appointment or call us for an emergency visit. 

Assess your pain

Your pain could come from a cavity, exposing the sensitive nerves inside your tooth, or a strained ligament because you bit down on something too hard. If the ache feels dull and concentrated in one area, it’s likely not a dental emergency that requires immediate action. 

Look for signs of infection — such as swelling, red or darkened gums, a sensation of warmth near the tooth, or a fever. Call us as soon as possible if you believe you have an infection, which can spread quickly and is dangerous to your overall health.

If the pain isn’t localized to one part of your mouth, it could be part of a larger issue. If your toothache comes with neck and lower jaw pain, seek out emergency medical care, especially if you have a personal or family history of heart problems. This can be a warning sign of a heart attack. 

Try at-home care first

If the pain isn’t sharp, sudden, and spreading throughout your jaw and neck, you probably don’t need to go to the emergency room. 

Taking some steps at home can help to moderate the discomfort you’re feeling. Start by rinsing your mouth, brushing, and flossing. This helps remove any food particles that might be irritating your teeth or gums. 

Over-the-counter pain medications often make a big difference for tooth pain. Take some ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen. Using a cold compress can also help to ease your pain, especially if you have any swelling.

If you still have intense pain after you’ve cleaned your mouth and taken a pain reliever, call our office. We can get you in for an emergency visit so Dr. Silva can find the cause of your toothache and address it as quickly as possible. 

Getting emergency dental care

When your tooth needs emergency dental care, reach out to our office. Our team helps you determine what your next steps should be. By calling in and telling us about your symptoms, we can get you in for an appointment while also giving you tips to manage your pain until you can see Dr. Silva. 

For any dental emergency care you need, call our office right away. If you’re getting relief with over-the-counter pain medication and the issue doesn’t feel as urgent, you can call or book your appointment online.