I need some advice because dental offices in my state are closed because of COVID-19. I broke a tooth in the back of my mouth. I was fine for a while, but lately it has been hurting like crazy. This morning when I woke up, it hurts all the way up to my eye and down toward my neck. Is this normal? It’s my first broken tooth.
Kaycie
Dear Kaycie,
You have more going on here than just a broken tooth. Either the tooth broke because there was extensive decay and the tooth is infected, or the tooth broke for other reasons and as a result of not being protected by a dental crown it has developed an infection.
I’m going to tell you right now that you are in a dangerous situation. This infection is spreading and is a dental emergency. Taking antibiotics will hold it off for a short time, but not long. You need a dentist to get in there and physically removed the infected pulp. Usually, this is done with a root canal treatment. However, the situation I’m picturing from your description tells me this tooth will need to be extracted.
I can’t stress how important it is that you not put this off. Your infection is spreading. It will work its way up to your brain or down to your heart or lungs. This can turn life-threatening quickly.
Dental Care During COVID-19
While the dental offices are closed in your state because of Coronavirus, you are the exception. They are allowing anyone in need of essential urgent care to get the care they need. Call your dentist. They will make arrangements for you.
Replacing this tooth
Eventually, you will want to replace this tooth. A permanent replacement may need to wait until the quarantine is over. However, this is the time to research your options. The best tooth replacement is a dental implant. After that, a dental bridge would be a good option. Other, less ideal options are a removable, partial denture and a dental flipper.
Priority one, get this infection dealt with. Then, start researching these replacements so you’ll know what you want as soon as the quarantine is up.
This blog is brought to you by Hoffman Estates Dentist Dr. William Becker.