Tooth pain can strike at the worst times—and when it does, Orem residents need to know whether it’s a true emergency or something that can wait. The truth? Toothaches are often a sign of a serious dental problem that shouldn’t be ignored.
Here’s how to tell if you’re having a dental emergency and what to do if a sudden toothache hits.
When Is a Toothache a Dental Emergency?
Not all toothaches are created equal. Some discomfort may come from something as simple as food stuck between teeth. But in other cases, pain could signal something urgent like:
- A deep cavity
- An infected tooth (abscess)
- Cracked or damaged enamel
- Gum disease
- Wisdom tooth issues
If your toothache includes swelling, fever, persistent pain, or sensitivity to heat or pressure, you likely need emergency dental care. Don’t wait—it could worsen fast.
What to Do If You Have a Toothache in Orem
If you’re in pain right now, follow these steps before your dental appointment:
- Rinse with warm salt water to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria
- Floss gently to remove any trapped food
- Take over-the-counter pain relief (like ibuprofen) if needed
- Apply a cold compress to the cheek for swelling
- Avoid chewing on the painful side
Then, call Canyon Gate Dental in Orem immediately. We offer same-day emergency appointments whenever possible to relieve pain quickly and treat the underlying cause.
Why Acting Fast Matters
Toothaches rarely go away on their own. In fact, pain is your body’s way of saying: something’s wrong. Delaying care can lead to:
- Spreading infection
- Tooth loss
- Expensive procedures like root canals or extractions
By catching problems early, we can often treat them with simple solutions—like a filling or medication—before they become complex (and costly).
Orem’s Trusted Emergency Dental Team
At Canyon Gate Dental, we’ve helped countless Orem patients get fast relief from toothaches and other dental emergencies. Our caring team uses advanced diagnostics, digital X-rays, and gentle treatment to resolve pain quickly and restore your comfort.
Whether you’re dealing with a cracked tooth, abscess, or mystery ache, we’re here to help—same day if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Should I go to the ER for a toothache?
A: Most emergency rooms can only provide temporary pain relief. It’s best to see an emergency dentist in Orem who can treat the root cause.
Q: My tooth only hurts when I eat—should I still call?
A: Yes. Intermittent pain can still signal an issue like decay or a cracked tooth. It’s better to get it checked early.
Q: What if I can’t get in right away?
A: Call us. We reserve openings for same-day emergencies and can guide you on how to manage pain until you’re seen.
Don’t Wait in Pain—Call Canyon Gate Dental Today
If you’re in Orem and suffering from a sudden or severe toothache, our emergency dental team is ready to help. Fast, gentle, and judgment-free care is just a phone call away.
