While all of us at your local dentist Newport Beach hope you’re not nervous about coming to the dentist, the truth is that, ironically, a lot of people are more uncomfortable about seeking dental care when they’re having pain or when they suspect something’s wrong. Consequently, they put off coming to the dentist until the pain grows so severe that they can’t ignore it any longer. The problem with this is that often, by delaying, the problem grows larger than it has to and the fix is more uncomfortable, more expensive, or both. Here’s our take on when you should bring that toothache in (and don’t worry–we’re not going to scold you!).
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A Toothache For More Than 3 Days
The vast majority of toothaches are caused by cavities, which are actually a type of bacterial infection. Bacteria growing on your teeth eat a hole in your tooth, allowing bacteria, pressure, and even bits of food to contact your tooth’s nerve. This can cause quite severe pain. If untreated, a cavity can become an abscess (see below). If you’ve had a sore tooth for more than about three days, get in to your dentist to have it examined.
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Swelling In Your Face Or Jaw Combined With Toothache
When a cavity isn’t treated, bacteria can get into the hole in the tooth and cause an abscess, or a pocket of infection/pus. Because of the buildup of pus inside a bony area, an abscess is exquisitely painful. Abscesses involve the immune system and need to be treated promptly. Left alone, they can be dangerous, since the site of infection (your mouth) is so close to your brain.
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