When is a Toothache an Emergency?

Most people experience toothaches at some point in their lives. However, the pain can be subjective, making it challenging to determine if it warrants an emergency dental visit.

Although it may be tempting to take over-the-counter painkillers and try to bear the pain, doing so can worsen the problem and lead to more expensive treatment. A toothache is a symptom of an underlying issue and should not be ignored.

⚠️ Symptoms of a severe tooth infection include ⚠️

• High fever

• Double vision or loss of vision

• Difficulty breathing

• Swelling of your cheeks, jaw, and/or neck

• A foul taste in your mouth

• Bad breath

• Stiff neck

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Headache

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When should I book an appointment to see my dentist?

If you experience a mild toothache or pain only felt when your teeth come into contact with hot or cold substances, it may not require same-day emergency care. However, dental pain can quickly escalate from mildly irritating to excruciating. The following reasons are considered a toothache-related emergency:

1. If your Toothache keeps you awake at night to the point you can't sleep, and you are experiencing intense pain

2. You are unable to drink or eat due to the pain

3. Pain medication doesn't seem to minimise the pain

Call us immediately at (07) 4646 4236  to book your emergency appointment and inform our receptionists about your situation. You may have an infected tooth that needs immediate attention.

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Risks of Tooth Infection

If you have a severe toothache and experience any of the symptoms below, it may indicate a serious infection that requires urgent medical attention. If you suffer from any of the following symptoms, go directly to the emergency room.

Various dental issues can cause a toothache, which can worsen over time if left untreated. Delaying medical treatment for a toothache increases the risk of serious complications, such as tooth loss and severe infection. It is always better to seek medical attention sooner rather than later when it comes to your teeth.

If you are experiencing a severe toothache, please call us immediately for emergency dental care.

The information in this article is intended for general educational purposes only. It does not constitute dental or medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation, diagnosis, or treatment by an AHPRA-registered practitioner. Treatment options, suitability, risks, and outcomes vary between individuals. If you have concerns about your oral health, we encourage you to book an appointment with a qualified dental practitioner. If you are unsure about any advice you have received, you are entitled to seek a second opinion.