Toothache Dentist Michigan

When your tooth hurts, it’s never fun. The pain can range from mild or dull to sharp and persistent. More often than not, the discomfort gets in the way of daily activities and demands your attention. Our West Michigan emergency dentists can help you move past toothaches with the right restorative treatment that makes sense for your smile, whether that be a dental filling or dental crown.

Learn more about possible causes and the treatment for a toothache below.

Why Do Toothaches Happen?

When it comes to toothaches, it isn’t hard to know you have one. The pain can be outright distracting and make it difficult to eat or drink. Because pain of this kind can mean any number of things, our local family dentists will need to thoroughly examine your mouth to determine how to treat a toothache. X-rays may also be helpful in ruling out certain causes as our dentists will be able to see underneath the gum line.

Most toothaches are a result of:

  • An abscessed tooth
  • Tooth decay
  • A fractured tooth
  • Damaged fillings
  • Excessive grinding or clenching
  • Gum infection or disease
  • An accumulation of food or debris between teeth

Any of the above causes will often result in intense, throbbing, or constant tooth pain. Sometimes pain only occurs when pressure is applied to the tooth. There may also be swelling associated with the toothache. Most symptoms will resolve on their own or with simple remedies. However, emergency dental care may be needed if you are experiencing extended pain or symptoms that could indicate infection.

Solutions For Toothaches

Depending on the cause, treating a toothache may include filling a cavity, performing an emergency root canal, prescribing antibiotics, or possibly extracting a tooth. Our dentists will do everything they can to alleviate your pain and save any affected teeth.

If your toothache is only minor, we recommend that you first try:

  • Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater
  • Using floss to dislodge trapped food particles
  • Taking over-the-counter pain relievers as needed
  • Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek

Knowing when to listen to your body and seek urgent dental care at one of our offices is important. If a serious toothache is not quickly dealt with, there is a chance that tooth extraction will be the only solution.

Remember, it’s wise to get help if your toothache is:

  • Lasting longer than 1 or 2 days
  • Severe
  • Accompanied by a fever, earache, or pain when you open your mouth wide
  • Resulting in a bad taste in your mouth
  • Causing red or bleeding gums
  • Leading to swelling in your cheek or jaw

Call Today for Toothache Relief

Our emergency dentists in West Michigan want you to enjoy life free from tooth pain. Call one of our MI Smiles Dental locations down below to schedule an appointment and get started.

Read More About Emergency Dental Care