A toothache can mean a lot of things, and though the discomfort won’t often go away for good on its own, it isn’t always severe enough to be considered a dental emergency. However, that doesn’t mean you should automatically try to tough out your toothache until it becomes unbearable. If it’s caused by significant damage to its structure, or the progression of internal tooth decay, then seeking treatment for it as soon as possible may be the best idea.

When it’s caused by internal tooth decay

Tooth decay is the chronic infection of your tooth structure that results when oral bacteria overwhelm it. The most common aspect of tooth decay is a cavity, which is the hole left in your tooth as the infection destroys your tooth’s crown structure. However, internal tooth decay means that the decay has directly infected the tooth’s nerves and tissues, from within the tooth’s pulp and through the root’s inner canal. Internal tooth decay is more severe than a more common cavity, and emergency root canal treatment might be necessary to save what remains of the tooth’s healthy, natural structure.

When it indicates tooth damage

If you damage a tooth from accidental trauma, then the need for emergency treatment might be obvious. However, not all forms of tooth damage are the same, and not all of them are the result of accidental trauma. For instance, a seemingly minor chip in your tooth might not be large enough to make you worry. However, if the chip is accompanied by pain in the tooth, then it most likely should concern you. In some cases, you may not notice any damage to the tooth at first, until it starts to hurt and you notice that it’s been significantly worn down, fractured, or broken. Until the tooth is restored, the damage will grow worse, and the toothache will grow more intense.

When the tooth is loose, as well

In addition to damage to the tooth’s structure, any discomfort that’s accompanied by looseness in your tooth should also be considered a serious situation. When healthy, your teeth and their roots are held in place with a complex series of periodontal ligaments. These ligaments allow just enough give to take the pressure of your bite without damaging the tooth. However, you shouldn’t notice this give if you push against your tooth with your tongue or finger. If a tooth is noticeably loose, these ligaments may have been damaged, or been eroded by the progression of chronic gum disease (also known as periodontal disease).

If your toothache needs emergency treatment

Depending on the specific cause of your toothache, it may require emergency treatment to save the tooth as well as alleviate the discomfort. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling the Dental Centre of Conroe in Conroe, TX, today at (936) 441-4600. We serve patients from Conroe and all neighboring communities.