What Type of Tooth Pain Requires Emergency Dental Care?

Tooth pain isn’t normal, so something is wrong when your tooth starts hurting. How do you know what type of tooth pain requires a call to your emergency dentist in Port St. Lucie? Toothaches can vary. Some patients describe them as dull, sharp, or throbbing. Although you can never know what it means unless you have it checked, identifying the type of pain can help determine what’s causing it.  

Tooth Pain and What They Mean 

Dull, Persistent Pain 

The most common type of tooth pain is a dull, persistent ache. It can happen for several reasons. Some causes of dull tooth pain are the following: 

• Tooth abscess 
• Food stuck between your teeth
• Bruxism or teeth grinding

You only need to floss and rinse your mouth to remove food debris. If the problem is bruxism, you need to see a dentist to treat it. Only until bruxism is addressed will the pain go away. For a tooth abscess, you’ll need emergency dental care.  

Tooth Sensitivity 

Tooth sensitivity is common but can also turn serious depending on what’s causing it. Dentists recommend you pay close attention to what triggers the pain and observe how long it lasts. If the pain is tolerable and temporary, it could be because of a worn enamel.  

Sometimes it can be treated by using toothpaste specially designed for sensitive teeth. It also helps to avoid drinking extremely cold or hot foods as they can cause pain. But, if the pain is severe and lasts for more than 30 seconds, it could be caused by exposed roots, gum disease, tooth decay, worn fillings, or fractures.  

Looking for an Emergency Dentist in Port St. Lucie? 

Tooth pain is not something to ignore, especially if it keeps coming back. The best way to know what’s causing it is to see a dentist. However, if you exhibit signs of a tooth abscess which includes severe, constant, and throbbing pain accompanied by a fever, you need emergency dental care as soon as possible.  

At Ricard Family Dentistry, we offer affordable emergency dental care services to restore your health. Contact us for an appointment.