Have you recently experienced a toothache? While this isn’t always a dental emergency, you should still visit your dentist if any discomfort persists or worsens over time. This can be an indication of a tooth infection, which can be detrimental to your oral and overall health if you choose to ignore it. Keep reading to learn why you shouldn’t hold off on treating a toothache in Hoboken!
What Causes a Toothache?
A toothache is often the result of an infection, which typically happens due to excessive consumption of sugary foods, gum disease (or some other source of disease), or improper care of the teeth. Without cleaning or treating your teeth, the natural bacteria in your mouth can grow and cause inflammation, decay, or abscesses.
Why Is it Dangerous to Overlook a Toothache?
The longer a toothache is left untreated, the more likely it can damage the nerves and blood vessels within the enamel. After a prolonged period, the infection can spread to other areas of your body and cause more serious health issues—such as sepsis, difficulty breathing, meningitis, or Ludwig’s Angina. For this reason, it’s best to schedule a visit with your dental team as soon as possible so they can prevent or stop the disease from spreading early on.
When Should You Contact Your Dentist?
Make sure you contact your dentist right away if you notice any of the following signs and symptoms of a toothache:
- Continuous throbbing at the location of discomfort.
- Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks.
- A fever.
- Difficulty chewing, eating, and swallowing.
- Swollen gums, jawline, cheeks, and sore throat.
To avoid the risk of a tooth infection, you can keep your smile safe by practicing proper dental hygiene, maintaining a well-balanced diet, and scheduling regular dental checkups every six months. Your dentist will monitor your oral health and provide the necessary treatment for any developing issues they may detect!
About the Author
Dr. Robert Graffeo earned his dental degree from the New York University College of Dentistry and has delivered high-quality care for nearly three decades. He also seeks continuing education to improve his expertise through several organizations like SPEAR Education, the Dawson Academy, and the Pankey Institute. He provides multiple comprehensive and modern treatments, including dental checkups/cleanings and root canal therapy to help protect your teeth from infections. If you need to schedule an appointment for a toothache, feel free to visit our website or call 201-683-3531.