What Should I Do If My Tooth Suddenly Starts Hurting?

Experiencing tooth pain can be both distressing and disruptive to your daily life. Whether it’s a dull ache, sharp pain, or sensitivity, dental discomfort should never be ignored. Toothaches can arise from various causes, including dental decay, infection, trauma, or underlying oral health issues. Below, our emergency dentist in Mountain View, Dr. Donian Shen, discusses essential steps to take when your tooth starts hurting and highlights the significance of emergency dentistry in managing sudden toothaches promptly and effectively.

1. Evaluate the Pain: When your tooth starts hurting, it’s crucial to assess the severity and nature of the pain. Determine if the pain is constant or intermittent, and note any triggers such as biting down, exposure to hot or cold temperatures, or consuming sweet foods. Evaluating the pain can help you provide detailed information to your dentist, aiding in a more accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
2. Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital when you experience tooth pain. Gently brush your teeth, paying attention to the area of discomfort, and rinse with warm saltwater to alleviate any inflammation or irritation. Maintaining a clean and healthy mouth can prevent further complications and provide temporary relief until you can see a dentist.
3. Contact an Emergency Dentist: Especially in cases where the tooth pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s crucial to seek immediate dental care. Emergency dentistry services are designed to address urgent oral health issues promptly, providing you with the necessary treatment and relief when you need it most.
4. Follow the Dentist’s Advice: Once you reach an emergency dentist, they will conduct a thorough examination, diagnose the underlying cause of your tooth pain, and recommend the appropriate treatment. This may include a root canal, tooth extraction, dental crown or filler, or other interventions depending on the severity of the condition. It’s crucial to follow the dentist’s advice and adhere to the prescribed treatment plan to ensure proper healing and prevent further complications.
5. Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings: Even if your tooth pain subsides or the underlying issue is resolved, it’s essential to schedule twice yearly dental check-ups and cleanings. Routine visits to the dentist can help identify and address potential dental problems early on, reducing the risk of future toothaches and emergencies.

At Smile By Design, we understand that dental concerns can occur at any time, so we offer same-day appointments to help you obtain relief as soon as possible. Contact us today by visiting our website or calling 650-938-1868. A member of our team can help you schedule a visit with Dr. Shen and offer further advice for relieving discomfort in the meantime.