6 Compelling Reasons You Shouldn't Ignore a Toothache

If you have a toothache, do not delay treatment for too long. A toothache is often a sign that there is something wrong inside your mouth. Unfortunately, many people tend to ignore the discomfort and wait for the problem to resolve on its own.

If you are doing that, call a dentist. Toothache pain should be checked out immediately. Discover six compelling reasons why you should not postpone a trip to the dentist when you have a toothache. 

1. Potential for Infection

Toothaches can be a sign of an underlying dental infection. That is especially true if you have an abscess on the affected tooth. Ignoring the toothache can cause infection to spread to other teeth and other areas of your body.

Unfortunately, that can have serious consequences for your dental and physical health. Infections can spread to surrounding tissues and even cause systemic health problems. Getting treatment promptly can prevent the infection from worsening and protect your health.

2. Pain and Discomfort

If your toothache has not affected your daily activities yet, you might think you can wait longer for treatment. That is not the case though. Toothache pain and discomfort can increase quickly, especially once an infection sets in.

If the infection reaches the nerve and root of the tooth, you could experience significant pain and discomfort. When that happens, you often have a dental emergency. 

3. Risk of Tooth Loss

If you are postponing treatment for your toothache, there is reason for concern. Delaying treatment for your toothache pain could increase the risk of tooth loss. This can happen for a couple of reasons.

If you wait too long, the damage might be so severe that your dentist needs to extract the tooth. Or, the root may become so weakened that your tooth falls out on its own. Luckily, you can avoid tooth loss by getting treatment for your toothache right away. 

4. Increased Dental Problems

When you postpone your appointment, you delay treatment for the underlying problem. Unfortunately, that can lead to additional dental problems.

For instance, if your toothache turns into a dental infection, you could end up with gum disease. If that happens, you put all your teeth at risk of dental problems. Plus, periodontitis also affects your health. Before you delay treatment any longer, schedule an appointment for your toothache. 

5. Increased Bad Breath

If you are trying to avoid dental care for your toothache, your breath might be affected. Toothache pain can increase your chances of developing bad breath, especially if you wait too long for treatment.

That is because tooth decay and infection can create bacteria that cause bad breath. One way to keep your breath smelling fresh is to see a dentist at the first sign of a toothache.

6. Nutritional Issues

If you are dealing with toothache pain, look at the food you are eating. Toothache pain often gets so intense that you can't eat properly. Unfortunately, this can lead to nutritional deficits, especially if you are only able to eat soft foods due to toothache pain.

If your toothache pain interferes with your ability to chew food, do not wait to call the dentist. Waiting too long for toothache treatment could affect your nutritional levels. 

Do not take chances with your teeth. If you have developed a toothache, give us a call at Calm Waters Dentistry. Our dentists are here to provide you with the dental care you need for your toothaches. We are also here to provide routine dental care as well. Let us know of the questions and concerns you have—we will be happy to answer them.