An Unlucky Gamble: How Ignoring Your Toothache Can Mean a Trip to the ER

Toothaches often form as a result of poor oral hygiene, facial trauma, or infection. While some may develop because of sinus pressure and congestion, most have a more serious underlying cause – one that requires the help of a trusted emergency dentist in Springfield. You may be tempted to see if the problem goes away on its own; however, this approach can have severe consequences. Instead of requiring a trip to the local emergency room for help, discover why you should schedule an appointment with your dentist sooner rather than later.

How Can an Infection Form?

Whether caused by poor dental hygiene, overconsumption of sugary foods and beverages, or dry mouth (halitosis), bacteria can develop and creep into the small areas of your teeth, resulting in serious pain throughout the structure.

What Symptoms Indicate a Serious Tooth Infection?

When a tooth causes significant pain that cannot be attributed to sinus congestion or trauma, there is likely to be an infection that is the root of the problem. Some of the most common symptoms associated with this issue include:

• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Sweating (fever) and chills
• Increased swelling throughout your face
• Dehydration
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Increased heart rate
• Stomach problems – vomiting, diarrhea

Can a Toothache Be Fatal?

Although extremely rare, it is possible to develop a severe toothache that results in death. Of course, the number of people who perished from this type of dental issue in the 1600s was extremely high; in fact, throughout London, it became the fifth or sixth leading cause of death. A little more than 300 years later, these infections still resulted in 10-40% of cases ending in fatality.

Fortunately, times have changed, and advancements in dentistry and dental technology make it unlikely. With a clear focus on preventive treatment and early detection systems now being used to identify signs before they become a problem, the likely result is restorative care (i.e., dental filling, dental crown, root canal treatment, etc.).

How Can an Emergency Dentist Help?

By calling to schedule an emergency appointment, your dentist can deliver timely care that addresses the underlying problem quickly so that you don’t have to worry about the state of your smile.

Using enhanced imaging to visualize the affected tooth, they can recommend necessary treatment to ensure your smile remains healthy and free of infection going forward. Antibiotics, a dental filling, a dental crown, root canal treatment, or even tooth extraction may be the preferred solution.

Don’t let a bothersome toothache continue to cause you pain and frustration. Instead, get the help you need right away by visiting an emergency dentist instead of wasting time in your local ER.

About the Author
Dr. Victoria Driskill is a native of Springfield, IL, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology and medical science from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. She then obtained her doctorate from the Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine. As one of two dentists at Advanced Dental Care of Springfield, she delivers timely and responsible emergency treatment to individuals suffering from severe toothaches, knocked-out teeth, and even lost dental crowns and fillings. If you have increasing pain forming in one or more of your pearly whites, and you’re tired of searching for an emergency dentist near me, visit our website or call (217) 546-3333.