A fractured tooth, a sudden and severe toothache, uncontrollable bleeding in the gums, or a loose filling are all examples of emergency dental situations. In these cases, it is essential to seek immediate treatment from an emergency dentist to prevent further damage to the teeth and gums. Read on for more information about common dental emergencies and how you can get an emergency dental appointment.
What is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation that requires urgent care from a dentist in order to prevent further damage to the teeth or gums. Common dental emergencies include chipped or broken teeth, abscesses, knock-out teeth, severe toothaches, and lost composite fillings or crowns.
If you think you are experiencing a dental emergency, it is important to contact your dentist as soon as possible. If you delay treatment, you may be at risk of further damage or infection which requires a more extensive and expensive treatment later on.
How Do I Know if What I’m Experiencing is Considered a Dental Emergency?
If you are unsure whether or not your situation qualifies as a dental emergency, ask yourself the following questions:
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- Is the pain severe and sudden?
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- Is there visible damage to the teeth or gums?
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- Are you experiencing excessive bleeding?
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- Are you having difficulty eating or speaking?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, it is likely that you are experiencing a dental emergency and should seek immediate attention from a dentist.
What To Do During a Dental Emergency?
Knowing what to do during a dental emergency can help you minimize the damage and get the treatment you need as quickly as possible. Here are some common dental emergencies and what to do in each situation:
Chipped or Broken Teeth
If you have chipped or broken a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm salt water and apply a cold compress to the affected area. Try to save any pieces of a broken tooth that you can find and bring them with you to your emergency appointment. Your dentist may be able to save part of the tooth.
Severe Toothache
The most common cause of severe tooth pain is tooth decay. The pain may feel like a sharp, throbbing pain that radiates from the tooth to other parts of your face. If you are experiencing a severe toothache, take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen. If the pain persists for more than a few hours, call your dentist and ask for a same-day appointment. It could be a sign of an infection or dental abscess.
Bleeding Gums
If you see more than a small amount of blood when you brush or floss your teeth, it could be due to gum disease or mouth injury. Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a gauze pad to the affected area until the bleeding stops. Then, do a cold compress to reduce swelling if your face is swollen. If the bleeding persists, contact your dentist for emergency treatment. Your dentist can diagnose the cause of the bleeding and provide proper treatment.
Knocked-Out-Tooth
If you have knocked out a tooth, try to find the tooth and rinse it off with water (do not scrub it). If possible, place the tooth back in its socket and hold it with a clean cloth or gauze. You can also store the tooth in a container of milk and bring it to your emergency appointment. A knock-out tooth can still be saved if you seek treatment immediately following the accident.
Lost Filling or Crown
A lost filling or crown can cause pain and sensitivity. To temporarily protect the exposed area, you can use a piece of gauze or sugarless gum. Then, contact your dentist for emergency care treatment.
Broken Orthodontics
If you have broken orthodontics, such as a broken bracket or prortuding wires on your braces, it is important to call your dentist as soon as possible. Broken orthodontic appliances can cause pain and discomfort and lead to further damage if not treated promptly. To reduce discomfort, use an orthodontic wax or cotton ball to cover any rough edges.
Abscessed Tooth
An abscessed tooth is a serious dental emergency that requires immediate attention. An abscess is an infection in the root of the tooth or between the gum and the tooth. Symptoms of an abscessed tooth include severe pain, swelling, fever, bad breath, or pus coming from the affected area. If you suspect that you have an abscessed tooth, contact your dentist immediately for an emergency appointment. Your dentist can diagnose the cause of the infection and provide proper dental treatment.
Getting an Emergency Dentist Appointment
The first thing you should do if you are experiencing a dental emergency is to contact your dentist. Your dentist will be able to advise you on the best course of action and may be able to provide you with a same-day appointment. If you have experienced severe facial trauma and suspect you may have a broken jaw or broken facial bones, visit the nearest hospital for assistance.
How To Prevent Dental Emergencies
Most dental emergencies can be prevented with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist for regular check-ups. Additionally, wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports or participating in other activities that could cause injury to your teeth. By taking these steps, you can help reduce the risk of dental emergencies.
Need an Emergency Dental Appointment? Call Us Today!
A dental emergency can be a frightening and painful experience. Without prompt treatment, it can lead to further damage and oral health complications. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, contact our dental office immediately to book a same-day emergency appointment. Our experienced team of dental professionals is here to help you get the dental care you need as quickly as possible.
