Toothaches can range from a minor annoyance to an intense, debilitating pain. Understanding when to seek emergency care is crucial for maintaining oral health and preventing complications. In London, Ontario, residents have access to excellent dental care, but knowing when a toothache requires immediate attention can make all the difference.

Introduction

Toothaches are a common dental issue that can arise from a variety of causes, including cavities, gum disease, infections, or trauma. While some toothaches can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and a dental appointment, others may require emergency care. This article aims to guide London, Ontario residents on when to seek emergency dental care and how to manage toothaches effectively.

1. Severe, Unrelenting Pain

When experiencing severe, unrelenting pain, it’s essential to seek emergency dental care.

• • Intensity: If the pain is so severe that it disrupts daily activities, it’s a sign that immediate attention is needed.
    • Over-the-counter pain medications provide little to no relief.
    • The pain is continuous and sharp.
  • Spread: Pain spreading to the jaw, ear, or head.
    • Indicates potential nerve involvement.
    • Could signal a serious underlying issue.
  • Duration: Pain that persists for more than a day or two.
    • Indicates a problem that won’t resolve on its own.
    • Needs professional intervention.

2. Swelling and Infection

Swelling and signs of infection are clear indicators that emergency dental care is necessary.

• • Visible Swelling: Swelling around the tooth, gums, or face.
    • Can indicate an abscess or serious infection.
    • Potential risk of spreading infection.
  • Fever: Presence of fever along with tooth pain.
    • Body’s response to infection.
    • Requires antibiotics and dental treatment.
  • Pus or Discharge: Any discharge or bad taste in the mouth.
    • Clear sign of infection.
    • Needs immediate drainage and treatment.

3. Trauma or Injury

Trauma to the mouth or teeth from accidents or falls necessitates urgent dental care.

• • Broken Teeth: Fractured or broken teeth.
    • Can expose nerves and cause severe pain.
    • Needs prompt repair to prevent further damage.
  • Dislodged Teeth: Teeth knocked out or loosened.
    • Immediate action can save the tooth.
    • Handle the tooth carefully and seek dental care within an hour.
  • Soft Tissue Injury: Cuts or lacerations in the mouth.
    • May require stitches.
    • Important to stop bleeding and prevent infection.

4. Persistent Gum Bleeding

Persistent gum bleeding should not be ignored and warrants emergency care.

• • Prolonged Bleeding: Bleeding that doesn’t stop after brushing or flossing.
    • Could indicate gum disease or other issues.
    • Needs evaluation and treatment.
  • Accompanied by Pain: Bleeding along with severe pain.
    • Suggests an underlying problem such as an infection.
    • Requires immediate care.
  • Recurrent Bleeding: Frequent episodes of gum bleeding.
    • May signal a more serious dental condition.
    • Important to get a professional diagnosis.

5. Severe Sensitivity

Severe sensitivity that interferes with daily activities can indicate a serious problem.

• • Temperature Sensitivity: Extreme pain when consuming hot or cold foods.
    • Could be due to enamel erosion or exposed nerves.
    • Needs assessment and treatment.
  • Sweet Sensitivity: Pain when eating sugary foods.
    • Suggests cavities or tooth decay.
    • Requires prompt dental care.
  • Pressure Sensitivity: Pain when biting or chewing.
    • Could indicate a cracked tooth or dental abscess.
    • Needs immediate evaluation.

6. Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth is a serious condition that requires immediate dental care.

• • Severe Pain: Intense, throbbing pain that may radiate to the jaw or ear.
    • Caused by an infection in the tooth root.
    • Needs urgent treatment to prevent complications.
  • Swelling: Noticeable swelling in the face or gums.
    • Indicates the spread of infection.
    • Needs drainage and antibiotics.
  • Fever and Malaise: General feeling of being unwell, along with fever.
    • Body’s response to severe infection.
    • Requires immediate dental and medical intervention.

7. Lost Dental Filling or Crown

Losing a dental filling or crown can lead to discomfort and requires prompt attention.

• • Pain and Sensitivity: Exposed tooth structure can cause pain.
    • Avoid chewing on the affected side.
    • Use dental cement as a temporary measure.
  • Risk of Further Damage: Exposed teeth are vulnerable to decay and damage.
    • Important to replace the filling or crown quickly.
    • Prevents complications and further treatment.
  • Discomfort: Difficulty eating or speaking.
    • Affects quality of life.
    • Needs professional reapplication or replacement.

8. Severe Tooth Decay

Advanced tooth decay can lead to significant pain and complications, requiring emergency care.

• • Visible Holes or Pits: Large cavities that are visible.
    • Can cause severe pain and sensitivity.
    • Needs immediate filling or other treatment.
  • Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath despite good oral hygiene.
    • Indicates decay and possible infection.
    • Requires prompt dental intervention.
  • Dark Spots on Teeth: Discolouration or black spots.
    • Sign of advanced decay.
    • Needs professional assessment and treatment.

9. Post-Dental Procedure Complications

Complications after dental procedures may necessitate emergency care.

• • Excessive Bleeding: Prolonged bleeding after an extraction or surgery.
    • Needs evaluation to prevent complications.
    • May require additional treatment.
  • Severe Pain: Pain that does not subside with prescribed painkillers.
    • Could indicate infection or other issues.
    • Requires immediate attention.
  • Swelling or Infection: Swelling or signs of infection after a procedure.
    • Needs antibiotics and professional care.
    • Prevents further complications.

10. Orthodontic Emergencies

Orthodontic issues, such as broken braces or wires, can require urgent care.

• • Broken Braces or Wires: Broken components causing pain or injury.
    • Can damage the mouth’s soft tissues.
    • Needs prompt repair or adjustment.
  • Loose Bands or Brackets: Components coming loose.
    • Affects the effectiveness of treatment.
    • Requires quick reattachment.
  • Severe Discomfort: Pain from orthodontic devices.
    • Can interfere with eating and speaking.
    • Needs professional adjustment.