There are many reasons to seek out an emergency appointment with a healthcare professional.

After all, as much as we try to control how well we are with diet, exercise, and hygiene, we may sometimes become ill through sheer circumstance or even bad luck.

But, while many people are aware of when they need to book a trip to the doctor or even to their nearest emergency department, few people are as eager to do so in relation to a dental emergency. Or, often, people are unaware that they require emergency dental treatment. In fact, one of the most common emergency conditions that our dental team sees are abscesses, also known as dental infections, which require urgent treatment or they can become more serious.

At the Healthy Smile Centre, our team is proud to be able to offer our patients same-day appointments with our emergency dentist in Mascot. If you have pain under your tooth, your brace has detached or your face has swollen up, our emergency team will assess your condition gently, and aim to get you back living life pain-free and happy.

So, would you be able to identify a dental abscess? Read on to find out the signs to look for.

Dental discomfort

Right, so the phrase ‘dental discomfort’ is somewhat softening the blow.

Simply put, if you have a dental abscess, it is likely that the discomfort alone will get you to book an emergency appointment with our dentist in Mascot.

However, if you notice a sharp, throbbing pain under one of your teeth or a pain that is spreading to either your upper or lower jaw, call our team immediately for an urgent appointment.

Sensitivity

Some sensitivity while drinking a hot or cold drink is normal for some people. However, if you notice a stabbing sensation when consuming a hot or cold beverage, call our dentist in Mascot immediately.

Such sudden sensitivity indicates that the nerve or root of the tooth has become exposed, either through damage or decay, leaving this channel open for bacteria to get access and cause an infection.

Swelling

Facial swelling is hard to miss, but many dental patients assume that if their face swells without discomfort, they can’t possibly have an infection.

Sadly, this is not the case and swelling may be the first sign that an infection is lurking just around the corner; call us as soon as you notice any swelling to your cheeks, jaw or throat areas.

Fever

One of the most common symptoms of any infection is a fever.

If you have a mild toothache but are feeling overly hot, followed by feeling cold, come and see us as soon as you can. When a fever starts, it is a sign that you need urgent medical treatment.

Gastrointestinal issues

Once you reach the stage of having loose movements and being physically sick or feeling nauseated, you need urgent medical attention. Our team can help with a combination of prescribed antibiotics, pain relief, and an emergency assessment.

Disclaimer

All dental treatments carry potential risks. Contact your local dental team for more information about the procedures mentioned in this article.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a dental abscess?

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection inside the tooth, gums, or surrounding bone. It usually develops due to untreated tooth decay, gum disease, or tooth damage and requires urgent dental treatment.

2. What are the first signs of a dental abscess?

Early signs include persistent throbbing tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold drinks, swelling in the gums or face, bad taste in the mouth, and discomfort when chewing. These symptoms should not be ignored.

3. Is a dental abscess a dental emergency?

Yes, a dental abscess is considered a dental emergency. Without prompt treatment, the infection can spread to the jaw, neck, or other parts of the body and may become serious.

4. Can a dental abscess go away on its own?

No, a dental abscess will not heal on its own. The infection must be treated by a dentist through drainage, antibiotics, or root canal treatment. Delaying care can make the condition worse.

5. How painful is a dental abscess?

A dental abscess is often very painful, with throbbing or sharp pain that may radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck. Some patients also experience constant discomfort or pressure around the affected tooth.

6. What causes a dental abscess?

Common causes include untreated tooth decay, cracked teeth, gum disease, or bacteria entering the tooth’s root. Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of developing an abscess.

7. How is a dental abscess treated?

Treatment may involve draining the abscess, prescribing antibiotics, performing a root canal, or extracting the affected tooth. The treatment depends on the severity and location of the infection.

8. When should I see an emergency dentist for a dental abscess?

You should see an emergency dentist immediately if you experience severe tooth pain, facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing, or signs of spreading infection.

9. Can a dental abscess make you sick?

Yes. If the infection spreads, it can cause fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and in severe cases, systemic illness. This is why urgent treatment is critical.

10. What happens if a dental abscess is left untreated?

If left untreated, a dental abscess can spread infection to the jaw, neck, or bloodstream, potentially leading to serious and life-threatening complications.