A toothache is never fun, but not every ache needs immediate emergency care. At John Street Dental we’re here to help you understand when to book a routine visit and when to seek urgent care.

Common Causes of Toothaches

Toothaches come in all shapes and sizes. Some can be a result of temporary irritation, while others might signal more serious dental issues. Here are a few common causes:

• Tooth Sensitivity: Has hot, cold, or sweet foods cause sharp, sudden pain? This could be a sign of tooth sensitivity. While it might be uncomfortable, sensitive teeth can usually be treated with desensitising toothpaste and monitored at your next check-up at John Street Dental.

• Cavities and Fillings: If you have a filling that’s starting to loosen, or if you notice a cavity developing, these minor issues can cause mild discomfort. At John Street Dental, we can help with early intervention and prevent these issues from becoming larger problems.

• Gum Inflammation: Sometimes, the pain may not be from your tooth at all, but from irritated or inflamed gums. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential, and our team is here to provide personalised care to keep your gums healthy and pain-free.

When Should You See a Dentist?

If your toothache is persistent or worsening, it may be time to visit us at John Street Dental for a thorough examination. Here’s when you should definitely reach out to our welcoming friendly team:

• Severe or Constant Pain: If the pain is intense or doesn’t go away after a few hours, this could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as an infection or an abscess. In these cases, prompt treatment is essential to avoid complications.

• Swelling or Fever: Pain that’s accompanied by facial swelling or a fever could indicate an infection that requires immediate attention. Don’t wait, contact our us right away on (07) 3284 4281 and our friendly team will make sure you’re seen as soon as possible.

• Pain that Disrupts Your Daily Life: If your toothache is interfering with eating, speaking, or sleeping, it’s a clear sign that you should book an appointment with your dentist. Ignoring the pain can lead to further complications.

What to Do If You Have a Toothache

If you’re not sure whether your toothache requires immediate attention, we recommend calling our us at John Street Dental for advice. Our friendly team will listen to your symptoms and provide guidance on the next steps.

In the meantime, here are a few tips to help relieve minor discomfort:

• Rinse with warm salt water to reduce inflammation and clean the area around the tooth.

• Take over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following the dosage instructions on the label.

• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to numb the area and reduce swelling.

Remember, these are temporary solutions. If your pain persists, it’s important to visit us to address the underlying cause of your toothache.

Preventing Future Toothaches

The best way to avoid future toothaches is to practice good oral hygiene. Here are a few tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

• Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.

• Visit John Street Dental for regular check ups and cleanings so we can catch any potential issues early.

• Avoid sugary snacks and drinks that can contribute to cavities.

At John Street Dental, we are dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy smile and avoid painful dental issues. If you’re dealing with a toothache or simply need a routine check-up, don’t hesitate to call us.  You can book online by clicking this LINK or call us on (07) 3284 4281.