We're all familiar with the standard rules of dental hygiene: brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss every day, visit the dentist once a year, etc.
But what do you do when a dental emergency occurs? That's not quite as straightforward.
Most people don't think to visit an emergency dentist until there are extreme symptoms present. Of course, having regular checkups can help ease dental issues down the line, but visiting the dentist when you're in pain can be quite stressful.
There are certain noticeable symptoms to look out for. Today we're going to take a look at 7 of them, so keep on reading.
- Chipped or Broken Tooth
One of the most important signs you need to have emergency dental care is having a chipped or broken tooth. This can not only be painful, but it can also weaken the overall integrity of the tooth and cause decay if left untreated.
In addition, a chipped or broken tooth can result in exposed nerve endings and heightened sensitivity when biting or chewing. In some cases, the broken tooth can cause the gums to bleed.
Depending on the severity of the fracture, the dentist may need to repair it with a dental crown, bonding material, or a dental filling to restore the tooth’s normal shape and function.
Prompt treatment of a chipped or broken tooth can help prevent further damage and bacterial infection and avoid bigger problems down the line.
- Severe Toothache
If you have a severe toothache that is accompanied by fever, swelling, and/or pain that radiates to your ear, jaw, or neck, or a foul-tasting discharge from your mouth, you may be experiencing a dental emergency. Take ibuprofen for pain relief and apply a cold compress to the area to reduce swelling as precautionary measures.
But, if you are not sure, it is always best to err on the side of caution and make an emergency dental appointment. They will be able to advise you on your questions about dental services and whether or not you need to be seen urgently.
Endodontic services, in particular, are a type of emergency care that assess and treat conditions concerning the inner portion of teeth. Such conditions can cause extreme sensitivity and pain, even when the tooth appears to be externally healthy.
- Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is a tooth that has been displaced from its natural position due to its misalignment, trauma, or other types of fractures. It is a dental emergency and requires immediate attention from a dental professional to prevent further complications, such as infection.
It is important to handle the tooth only by the top of the crown and place it in a glass of milk or cold water until you can get to the dentist. If the tooth is completely knocked out, time is of the essence when it comes to replacing it and hence there is a need to seek the help of a dentist as soon as possible.
The dentist will assess the situation, clean any dirt and debris from the tooth, and then, if possible, may reposition and secure the tooth back in its original position.
- Abscessed Tooth
An abscessed tooth, also referred to as an infection, is a severe dental issue, typically causing a collection of pus in the gums or near a tooth. This infection can be extremely painful and may be a result of dental decay or gum disease.
Signs of an abscessed tooth can include intense pain when eating, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, swollen gums, bad breath, and even a bad taste in the mouth.
In more serious cases, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and even cause a fever. Treatment of an abscessed tooth may require a root canal or extraction to help relieve the pain and stop the spread of the infection.
- Bleeding Gums
One of the most common signs of bleeding gums is the presence of blood when you brush or floss your teeth. If you notice blood on your toothbrush or in the sink after you brush, your gums are likely bleeding. In some cases, bleeding gums can also be a sign of gingivitis, which is a form of gum disease.
If your gums are bleeding and you're also experiencing pain, swelling, or redness in your gums, it's best to see a dentist right away, as these could be signs of a more serious dental problem.
- Swollen Gums
Swollen gums can be caused by a variety of dental issues like periodontitis, a condition that affects the supporting structures of the teeth. Swollen gums, usually accompanied by pain, occur when the tissue becomes infected and the area becomes inflamed.
This inflammation can be accompanied by redness, tenderness to the touch, and pain when you open your mouth. If you notice any of these signs or any extreme sensitivity or pain, then it’s essential to see an emergency dentist.
- Unusual Lumps and Bumps
These lumps may be indicative of various oral health issues which can cause severe discomfort and should be assessed by an emergency dentist as soon as possible.
Unusual lumps or bumps can also be concerning due to their potentially negative impact on adjacent teeth and the overall health of the mouth. It is important to understand that the most effective way to assess and manage this type of complication is to visit an emergency dentist.
A qualified professional is capable of offering their expert opinion to best assess and address the issue. Furthermore, this type of specialist can offer specific treatments which can help to resolve the issue promptly.
Keep Up Your Dental Care and Visit an Emergency Dentist Now
Don't take dental problems lightly; they could lead to serious health issues. If you experience any of the seven signs mentioned above, you should look out for emergency dentists and get yourself or your loved ones checked promptly.
Taking prompt action is crucial to prevent any oral or overall health problems. Visit an emergency dentist today and protect your all-around health.
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