If you have a toothache, then you’re likely well aware of how it gets in the way of your everyday life. It can make enjoying your favorite foods a bit harder, but your dentist can help provide relief. In fact, ignoring it can be trouble, as dental problems can’t heal on their own. This condition can affect your overall health if left untreated. Here’s what you should know and why it’s important to visit your emergency dentist in Cocoa Beach.
What Can Cause a Toothache?
Toothaches can happen from a wide range of issues. Sinus pressure can be a culprit, but it oftentimes goes away on its own. However, oral health-related ones can’t resolve themselves. Teeth grinding or clenching can occur subconsciously while you sleep, so you might wake up with this discomfort.
One worrying cause is an infection. The inner pulp is under attack, which can harm the structure and spread to your nearby teeth, gums, and the rest of your body.
Are Toothaches Fatal Today?
The bacteria that’s causing an infection can travel through your bloodstream and lead to other conditions. Sepsis, meningitis, and Ludwig’s Angina are a few other problems you may be at a higher risk for.
That said, fatal toothaches are rare nowadays thanks to advanced technology. This wasn’t the case for those in the past. This oral health issue was the fifth to sixth leading cause of death in the 1600s. Cases were still lethal, at about 10% to 40%, up until 1908.
What’s the Treatment for a Toothache?
While you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing toothaches aren’t fatal today, you can avoid trouble by heading to your dentist. They will do an exam to find the underlying problem and give you an effective solution.
For instance, if teeth grinding or clenching is the culprit, then a nightguard can protect your smile. If it’s a tooth infection, a root canal can remove the affected pulp to get rid of the issue. A crown is often needed afterward to give you back the appearance and function. Your provider is here to get your grin back to great shape; that way, you don’t have to worry about it or your overall health.
About the Practice
Worried about your teeth and gums? Our team at Lineberry Dental of Cocoa Beach is dedicated to helping patients with their dental emergencies by offering same-day urgent visits. Led by Dr. Jeff Lineberry, we will get to the bottom of your toothache and give you the long-lasting relief you deserve. If you’re dealing with dental discomfort, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling our office at 321-783-7514.