My Tooth Hurts When I Eat: Is This a Dental Emergency?

If your tooth hurts when you eat, it can be disconcerting on a number of levels. It’s reasonable to wonder whether this is a dental emergency in Houston or Katy, TX, especially if the pain is rather severe. We’ll look at when to call the dentist and when you can safely wait until the next available appointment.

Toothaches and Dental Emergencies

A general toothache, essentially defined as mild to moderate pain when you eat, would likely not be a dental emergency. It’s certainly a sign that you need to see a dentist, but it does mean that you need to see the dentist immediately.

What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?

If you’re experiencing any of the following while you eat, you may need to see a dentist immediately:

• Severe pain: Severe pain or bleeding can mean that your tooth is in trouble. If it’s infected or broken in any way (even if it’s just a chip), you’ll want to call an emergency dentist.
• Lost fillings or crowns: If you’ve lost a crown or a filling, you don’t necessarily want to wait until your dentist can fit you in. These events make your tooth more vulnerable to every bite you take. To avoid additional (and more expensive) dental work, your best bet is to see a dentist sooner than later.
• Trauma: If you’ve experienced recent trauma, whether it’s a blunt blow to the face or ongoing pressure to that side of the face), you may want to see a dentist soon.

Emergency Dentists in Katy, TX

At Chloe Dental, you’ll find emergency dentists in Katy and Houston, TX, who can help you get the care you need. Contact us today to help you determine whether your pain warrants an immediate trip.