A toothache can be an incredibly uncomfortable and disruptive experience, and it's something most of us have dealt with at some point in our lives. But when does a toothache warrant an immediate visit to the dentist, and when is it safe to monitor your dental pain at home? Here, you’ll find helpful information on when to call your dentist for a toothache from Corona, CA, dentist Dr. Bhavik Bhakta and the caring team at Sunshine Dental.

What is causing my toothache?

Toothaches can be caused by various factors, some of the most common of which include:

• Tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, sugary foods/drinks, etc.
• Fractured or cracked tooth
• Impacted wisdom teeth
• Abscessed tooth
• Grinding your teeth

How can I get relief from my tooth pain at home?

If you're dealing with a toothache, there are some home remedies and self-care practices that may help provide temporary relief until you can reach the dentist, such as:

• Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater
• Over-the-counter pain relievers used as directed
• Cold compress
• Avoiding sensitivity triggers

However, it's important to understand that these measures should be considered temporary solutions only. While they may alleviate the symptoms, they won't address an underlying dental issue, which — when left untreated — may lead to worsening symptoms, tooth damage, and even the loss of your tooth in some cases.

When is a toothache considered a dental emergency?

Anytime there is a change in the status of your dental health, function, and comfort, it is important to seek treatment and care. However, there are certain scenarios that are considered dental emergencies, warranting an immediate call and visit to your dentist. Common examples of dental emergencies include:

• You have a loose adult tooth or are at risk of losing an adult tooth
• An adult tooth has been knocked out
• You're experiencing severe and prolonged tooth pain
• You have an abscessed tooth, which is a painful infection at the root of a tooth
• Your gums are severely swollen, especially if it's causing difficulty in breathing or swallowing
• Your gums won't stop bleeding after an injury or dental procedure
• A dental crown has fallen off, exposing the underlying tooth structure

Again, it’s important to know how to recognize the signs of a dental emergency and seek immediate professional care. Delaying treatment can lead to worsening symptoms, complications, and potential damage to your oral health. Additionally, when a toothache or dental pain is accompanied by a high fever, nausea, vomiting, and/or damage to the mouth, face, or head, patients should visit their nearest ER or urgent care. Once these issues have been addressed by a medical provider, we can address your dental pain.

What happens if I get a toothache over the weekend?

If you experience a toothache over the weekend, you can take comfort in knowing that our dental office offers Saturday appointments and emergency dental care when necessary. We understand that dental issues can arise at any time, and our team is committed to providing you with the care you need when you need it.

Get the toothache relief you deserve and safeguard your dental health with emergency dental appointments in Corona, CA

If you are experiencing a dental emergency or have a toothache that is not responding to temporary, at-home pain relief measures, don’t hesitate to call us. At Sunshine Dental, Dr. Bhavik Bhakta and our caring team are here to help. For more information about our complete range of dentistry services in Corona, CA — or to schedule your emergency dental visit — contact us today.