Ignoring “ordinary toothache” can lead to “serious” health consequences

Some may think that tooth pain is simply caused by excessive sugar consumption. However, according to Dr. Smita Mehra, a dentist, neglecting an “ordinary toothache” can lead to severe health problems.

Dr. Mehra stated that tooth pain accompanied by inflammation can worsen due to the limited space for swelling in the mouth, requiring urgent medical attention.

She explained that ignoring treatment could result in tooth loss as well as infections or abscesses that may spread throughout the body, posing life-threatening risks such as sepsis or infections in the jaw, neck, or brain.

Untreated dental infections may develop into abscesses, leading to increased pain, swelling, and fever, necessitating immediate care. She added that delaying treatment could require costly and complex procedures like root canals or surgeries.

Moreover, Smita Mehra emphasized that seeing a dentist early on can save time and money, as minor issues are easier and less expensive to treat compared to those that worsen due to neglect.

She also advised several methods for temporarily relieving pain, such as gargling with a mixture of warm water and salt, using clove oil to ease symptoms, as well as painkillers and cold compresses.

If the pain is accompanied by swelling in the neck or mouth, or if it is severe, it is crucial to visit the emergency department immediately.