A dental emergency can happen at any time. Tooth pain is usually indicative of irritation to the pulp (nerve) or the surrounding structures of the tooth in questions. Pain can initiate from within the tooth itself or from the gum tissue surrounding the tooth. The main reason behind tooth pain is decay. Usually, as decay becomes larger, it decreases its distance to the nerve endings inside your roots. This sends a signal to your brain causing pain. Other causes of tooth pain can be from plaque and calculus built up over time, wisdom teeth pressure or sensitivity (Generalized or local) due to an underlying cause. Over the counter medications can help temporarily. However, the underlying cause of pain needs to be addressed immediately. If not addressed they can lead to further destruction of tooth structure and/or infection or worse.
Our office is equipped to handle dental emergencies. We have in place an after-hours answering service for our patients who require emergency dental treatment.