Toothache Relief: A Quick Guide to Dental Emergencies

At Legacy Dental of Murrieta, we understand that toothaches can be a real pain. That's why our team is here to provide quick, effective, and compassionate care to help you get back to feeling your best. Whether it's a cavity, gum disease, or something else causing your discomfort, we have the skills and expertise needed to diagnose and treat dental emergencies.

One of the most common reasons people seek emergency dental care is to alleviate toothaches. Toothaches can develop for many reasons and require a precise diagnosis of the underlying cause for proper care.

Discovering the Causes of Your Toothache

• Tooth Decay: One of the primary culprits behind toothaches is tooth decay. Harmful bacteria in the mouth metabolize dietary sugar and produce acid that erodes dental enamel. This destructive process creates a cavity. Without proper care, a cavity deepens, destroying more tooth structure, eventually affecting the nerve and causing a toothache.
• Gum Disease: Inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis or periodontitis, can cause toothaches. As the gums recede, tooth roots become exposed, potentially creating sensitivity and pain. Periodontal disease can also lead to gum pocketing and an infection.
• Dental Abscess: A dental abscess, often resulting from untreated cavities or gum disease, can cause severe toothaches. This pus-filled sac can lead to throbbing pain and requires immediate attention.
• Cracked or Fractured Teeth: A cracked or fractured tooth can expose the sensitive inner layers, causing intense pain. This situation can arise from dental trauma, grinding, biting into a hard substance, or the stress and strain affecting fragile tooth structure surrounding a large filling.
• Problematic Wisdom Teeth: The emergence of wisdom teeth can lead to pain, discomfort, and potential infections. Impacted wisdom teeth and ones that don't have enough space to erupt properly are often problematic.

Identifying the Symptoms of a Toothache

Not all toothaches are alike and can manifest themselves in many ways. You may experience sensitivity to hot, cold, or discomfort in a tooth with biting pressure or touch. Swelling and redness in the tissues around a tooth, persistent bad breath, and sinus or jaw pain may also indicate a dental problem.

The most important thing to remember is that ignoring a toothache can have serious consequences. In addition to worsened pain, an untreated toothache can lead to an infection that severely affects oral health and overall well-being.

Taking Action Against Dental Emergencies

If you're experiencing a toothache, don't delay. Contact our office for the skilled, reliable care needed to alleviate your discomfort, restore your smile, and get back on the road to health.