If you are dealing with a persistent toothache, then it can put a damper on your everyday life. It can get in the way of you eating comfortably, but you may think that it’ll go away on its own. You might wait and hope it’ll fix itself, but this isn’t a good idea! Over time, it can actually put your overall health at risk! Here’s how and why you should call your emergency dentist in North Bethesda right away.
What Can Cause a Toothache?
Many culprits can be to blame when it comes to toothaches. It can be because of teeth grinding or clenching habits, or an infection that’s attacking the inner structures, to name a few. These may not seem serious, but they can lead to a dental emergency over time.
This is particularly true for the latter reason, as the bacteria inside your tooth can only cause more problems. They can attack the nerve until it stops sending pain signals, leading to an even more urgent situation. That’s because an oral infection can’t heal on its own, so it can be more likely to spread across your smile and even your body.
So, Can a Toothache Become Fatal?
In the 1600s, a tooth infection was the fifth to sixth leading cause of death. In 1908, the number changed to being fatal in about 10% to 40% of the time. However, this outcome is relatively rare in modern times! This is thanks to modern dentistry and the advancement of instruments and technology.
That being said, it’s still possible for the dental infection to spread across your body when it’s left untreated. You may be at a higher risk of other diseases, such as sepsis, meningitis, and Ludwig’s Angina, because of it. So, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the symptoms of this oral health issue. Here are ones to know:
- Tooth sensitivity,
- Fever, chills, and swelling
- Persistent bad breath
- Fatigue, dizziness, and headaches.
What Can My Dentist Do?
If you have any of these symptoms, then it’s important you visit your dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to do an oral assessment and take X-rays to find the root of the problem. If it is an infection, then they can offer a treatment plan that gets rid of it. If it’s another reason, then they will still walk you through the steps needed to get relief.
In the end, a toothache is a good enough reason to visit your provider. Even if you think it’s not a big deal, it’s better to be safe than sorry. That way, you can get to a worry-free smile once again.
About the Author
Dr. Yelena Obholz earned her dental degree from New York University College of Dentistry. She is dedicated to giving the North Bethesda community the high-quality dental care they deserve. Dr. Obholz is here for you during your dental emergencies, offering same-day urgent visits to give you relief as soon as possible. If you are currently dealing with a toothache, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling her office at (301) 658-7647.