Toothache can be a common occurrence for many people, but it's important to know when it's serious enough to seek medical attention. Ignoring a toothache can lead to serious health problems and even permanent damage to your teeth.
Here we explore how to know if your toothache is serious and what to do about it.
Location of pain
One of the first things to consider when determining the severity of your toothache is the location of the pain. Pain in the front teeth or along the gum line can be a sign of something minor like a cavity or filling that has fallen out.
However, if the pain is coming from the back of your mouth, it may be a sign of a more serious issue like an abscessed tooth or impacted wisdom tooth.
Intensity of pain
Another important factor to consider is the intensity of the pain. If the pain is mild and comes and goes, it's likely not a serious issue. However, if the pain is severe and persistent, it's time to see a dentist.
A toothache that wakes you up at night or interferes with your daily activities is a sign that something more serious is going on.
Other symptoms
If you're experiencing other symptoms along with your toothache, it's important to take note of them. For example, if you have a fever, swollen glands or difficulty swallowing, you may have an infection that requires immediate attention.
Other symptoms like sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, or pain when biting down, may be a sign of a cracked or broken tooth.
Previous dental work
If you've had fillings or other dental work done in the past, it's important to pay attention to any changes in the affected area.
If you notice pain or sensitivity in a tooth that has previously been treated, it may be a sign that the filling or restoration has failed and needs to be replaced.
What to do if your toothache is serious
If your toothache is serious, the best thing to do is to seek professional dental care. Your dentist will be able to diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Depending on the severity of the problem, treatment options may include fillings, root canals, extractions or other forms of dental surgery.
A toothache should never be ignored. If you're experiencing pain or discomfort in your teeth, it's important to seek professional dental care.
Pay attention to the location and intensity of the pain, as well as any other symptoms you may be experiencing.
With the help of a dentist, you can get the treatment you need to alleviate your pain and maintain good oral health.
GetSavvi Health offers dentistry benefits
At GetSavvi Health we understand the importance of keeping your teeth in good condition.
That's why we offer dentistry benefits that cover a range of services, including consultations, fillings, extractions and accident emergency treatment. We also offer a top-up option, providing you and your family with unlimited dentistry cover.
Our plans are designed to help you and your family get the dental care you need at an affordable price.