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When you have a toothache, it can be annoying to deal with. The discomfort it causes can get in the way of comfortable eating, but you may do your best to ignore it. You might imagine that it’ll go away on its own, but doing so can put your oral and overall health at risk. Here’s why it’s important not to ignore it, which might have you searching for an emergency dentist in Zionsville.
What’s Causing My Toothache?
Sinus pressure, teeth grinding or clenching, and infection are often the cause of a toothache. They can all be trouble in their own right, but the latter is often an urgent situation that needs to be handled right away. Bacteria have reached the inner pulp and can attack the nerve. Over time, it can become damaged to the point that it cannot send out signals.
While this does get rid of the pain you were feeling, it doesn’t mean the problem itself is gone. The bacteria can spread to your nearby teeth, gums, and even your body. This becomes an even bigger emergency that you should take care of right away.
So, Is It Possible for a Toothache to be Fatal?
Nowadays, toothaches with fatal consequences are rare. Advanced dental technology has allowed dentists to better spot the problem sooner and give their patients the treatments they need. However, there are several complications when bacteria in the mouth are left to their own devices. They can spread and cause other diseases, such as Ludwig’s Angina, meningitis, and sepsis.
People in the past weren’t as lucky as today. A tooth infection was the fifth to sixth leading cause of death in the 1600s. This situation still resulted in this for about 10% to 40% of cases in 1908.
How is a Toothache Typically Treated?
By visiting your dentist about your toothache, they will be able to pinpoint the oral health issue you’re experiencing. If teeth grinding and clenching are the problem, then you can get fitted with a nightguard. An infection often calls for a root canal to get rid of the bacteria. What exactly you need can be figured out by simply having your provider take a look.
In the end, a toothache being fatal is a rare occurrence, but it’s still important that you get it checked out right away. That way, you don’t have to worry about it causing a bigger issue in the future.
About the Author
Dr. Angelo M. Julovich earned his dental degree from Indiana University’s School of Dentistry. He has several decades of experience under his belt that he uses to give the Zionsville community the high-quality care they deserve. Dr. Julovich is often able to see you the same day for your dental emergencies, so you can get the relief you deserve right away. If you are dealing with a toothache, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling his office at (317) 769-3335.