My dentist is closed due to the shutdown. I had a small cavity when this all started, but I think it’s gotten worse because I have a massive toothache. Do you know of a home remedy? I’m sure it will take longer than the dentist but I’ve got to do something. I’m in a lot of pain.
Drew
Dear Drew,
I am very sorry you are in so much pain. Generally, tooth pain is a sign you have a dental infection. This is especially likely because you already had some decay there. Dental infections are a tad different from other types. The only way to treat the infection is to remove the infected pulp. That is typically done by a root canal treatment, if the tooth can be saved, or a tooth extraction if it cannot. I don’t think either of those are something you want to do on your own at home.
The good news is these are considered dental emergencies. Even under the COVID-19 quarantine, urgent care is permitted. Your dentist will be able to treat you. So yay for not having to treat your own tooth.
You don’t want to put this off. Aside from the pain you are in, leaving an infected tooth is dangerous. Believe it or not, people still die from tooth infections. The reason for that is our jaws are very close to our hearts, lungs, and brain. Once the infection reaches any of those areas, it becomes life-threatening very quickly.
If Your Tooth Can’t Be Saved
You will want to replace a missing tooth. If you don’t, aside from looking strange, the adjacent teeth will drift into the empty space, causing severe bite problems. The top of the line tooth replacement is a dental implant. This is the closest to having a healthy, natural tooth again. Hopefully, this won’t be necessary.
This blog is brought to you by Auburn Family Dentist Dr. Raymond Bolt.