Toothaches, Broken Teeth, and Abscesses: Common Dental Emergencies Explained

Dental emergencies can strike without warning, causing significant discomfort and concern. Whether it’s a persistent toothache, a cracked or broken tooth, or a painful abscess, knowing how to recognize and respond to these issues is essential. At Midtown Dental Center, we’re here to help you understand what constitutes a dental emergency and what steps to take when one arises.
 

Understanding Toothaches

Toothaches are one of the most common dental complaints—and for good reason. They can range from mild discomfort to excruciating pain, and often indicate underlying issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, or infection.
 

What to look for:

• Persistent or throbbing pain

• Sensitivity to hot or cold

• Swelling around the tooth or jaw

• Fever or headache accompanying the pain
   

If you're experiencing a severe or lingering toothache, it's important to seek dental care promptly. Delaying treatment can lead to complications and more invasive procedures down the line.
 

Addressing Broken or Chipped Teeth

Whether it’s the result of an injury, biting something hard, or underlying decay, a broken or chipped tooth can quickly become a serious concern. Beyond affecting your appearance, broken teeth can expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth, increasing your risk of infection and further damage.
 

What to do:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water

• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling

• Save any broken pieces if possible

• Call your dentist immediately for evaluation and repair
   

Treatment options may include bonding, crowns, or, in severe cases, root canal therapy. Acting quickly can help preserve the tooth and prevent complications.
 

Dental Abscesses: A Serious Sign of Infection

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, typically at the root of a tooth or in the gums. This condition is considered a true dental emergency due to the risk of the infection spreading to other parts of the body.
 

Symptoms include:

• Intense, throbbing pain

• Swollen face or cheek

• Fever

• A foul taste in the mouth or bad breath

• A pimple-like bump on the gums that may release pus
   

Abscesses require immediate treatment, often involving drainage of the infection and antibiotics. In some cases, a root canal or tooth extraction may be necessary to fully resolve the issue.
 

Contact Midtown Dental Center Today

When a dental emergency strikes, timely care is crucial. Ignoring symptoms or delaying treatment can lead to increased pain, more complex procedures, and higher costs.
 

If you're dealing with a toothache, broken tooth, or signs of infection, contact Midtown Dental Center to schedule an emergency visit. Call our office in Atlanta, Georgia, at (404) 874-0800 to book an appointment today.