Toothache Triage: When to Call an Emergency Dentist in Oakboro

A toothache can start as a dull ache or a sudden sharp pain that stops you in your tracks. Sometimes it fades on its own, but other times, it’s a warning sign that something more serious is going on. At Oakboro Family Dentistry, Dr. Charles T. Bobo, Dr. Austin Mogy, and Dr. John Bedingham understand how uncomfortable—and confusing—dental pain can be. Here’s how to tell when it’s time to pick up the phone and call for urgent care.

When a Toothache Can’t Wait

If you’re dealing with severe, throbbing pain that doesn’t go away, swelling in your face or jaw, or a tooth that’s sensitive to pressure or temperature, those are signs you shouldn’t ignore. These symptoms often point to an infection or abscess, which can spread if not treated quickly.

Other red flags that require immediate attention include:

• Pain that wakes you up at night
• Swelling that makes it hard to open your mouth
• A cracked or knocked-out tooth
• Bleeding that won’t stop

Even if you’re not sure whether it’s an emergency, it’s always best to call. Our team can help you determine the next step and, when needed, arrange care as soon as possible.

Toothaches That Can Wait (For Now)

Not every toothache is a true emergency. Minor sensitivity after a new filling, temporary discomfort from sinus pressure, or mild irritation from food stuck between teeth can often wait for a regular appointment.

Try brushing and flossing gently to remove debris, rinse with warm salt water, and take an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed. If your symptoms don’t improve within a couple of days—or they start getting worse—it’s time to get checked out.

What We Can Do for a Toothache

At Oakboro Family Dentistry, our goal is to relieve your pain quickly and find the root cause. Depending on what’s going on, your dentist might recommend:

• A filling or crown for decay or damage
• Root canal therapy for an infected tooth
• Deep cleaning if gum disease is the culprit
• Antibiotics to treat or prevent infection

We’ll explain every step and make sure you’re comfortable throughout the process—because dental emergencies don’t just need quick treatment, they need gentle care too.

Emergency Dental Care in Oakboro, NC

A toothache is your body’s way of saying something’s not right, and you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Oakboro Family Dentistry, Dr. Bobo, Dr. Mogy, and Dr. Bedingham provide prompt, compassionate care to get you out of pain and back to smiling again.

If you’re unsure whether your toothache can wait or needs immediate attention, call our Oakboro office. We’ll help you triage your symptoms, offer guidance, and schedule treatment as soon as possible.

Categorised in: Dental Emergencies