Do you know when to consider a dental problem a true dental emergency? Knowing what requires immediate attention and what can wait for an appointment is important.
When it comes to the health of your teeth, an accident or unexpected pain can arise at any time. It’s important to understand when you have a true dental emergency that needs immediate attention and how to get that attention if needed.
Dental emergencies demand not only prompt diagnostic measures but also require timely treatment to prevent permanent damage such as loss of teeth. In this article, we will discuss common dental emergencies and treatments and how you can make an emergency appointment with the right professional so that they can diagnose and treat the issue promptly.
What is considered a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is a situation that requires immediate attention from a dental professional to alleviate pain, prevent permanent damage, or save a tooth. Some common examples of dental emergencies include:
Severe Pain in a Tooth or the Mouth
If you experience sudden and intense tooth pain or mouth pain that does not go away with over-the-counter pain relievers, it may indicate an infection or abscess that requires prompt treatment.
Broken Teeth or Knocked-Out Teeth
If you fracture, chip, or lose a tooth due to trauma, you must see a dentist as soon as possible. Sometimes, it may be possible to save the tooth if you act quickly.
Uncontrolled Bleeding
If you experience uncontrollable bleeding in your mouth that does not stop after applying pressure for several minutes, seek immediate dental care.
Swelling or Infection
If you have swelling in your gums, face, or neck, or if you have a fever, it may indicate an infection that requires treatment.
Loose or Lost Filling or Dental Crown
If you lose a filling or crown, it can expose the nerve of your tooth and cause pain or sensitivity.
If you experience any of these symptoms, or if you have any other concerns about your oral health, don’t hesitate to contact a dental professional. Many dental offices offer emergency services or can refer you to an emergency dentist. Remember, prompt treatment can help prevent further dental issues and improve your chances of full recovery.
Emergency Dental Treatments
Emergency dental services are designed to address urgent dental problems and provide relief from dental pain, as well as prevent further damage. If you experience a medical emergency, it is important to seek treatment right away in order to reduce the risk of permanent damage. Depending on the nature of your issue, your dentist may recommend various emergency treatments. Here are some common dental procedures:
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- Root Canal Therapy: This procedure is used to treat an infection in the pulp of the tooth. It will remove the infected tissue and restore the health of the affected tooth.
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- Tooth Filling: A filling can repair a chipped, cracked, or decayed permanent tooth.
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- Dental Crowns: Dental crowns are a type of dental restoration used to cover severely damaged teeth or replace a knocked-out tooth following a dental implant.
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- Tooth Extraction: If a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, it may need to be extracted. This can also be necessary if you’ve experienced any dental injuries that have caused a loose tooth that cannot be saved.
What to Do In the Event of a Dental Emergency
If you experience a dental emergency, the first step is to contact your dentist right away. Most dental offices have procedures to address urgent issues, and they may be able to provide same-day or next-day dental appointments. If your dentist’s office is closed, they may have an emergency number you can call to reach a dental professional. You can also contact an emergency dentist who can provide urgent care.
In the event of a dental emergency, it is important to remain calm and follow any instructions provided by your dentist. If possible, try to locate any lost teeth or fragments and bring them with you when you visit the dentist. The sooner the issue is addressed, the better the chances of a full recovery.
Dental Emergency FAQs
What is the most common dental emergency?
The most common dental emergency is a toothache. Toothaches can have many different causes, including tooth decay, gum disease, cracked teeth, or a foreign object stuck in the gums. If you experience a severe toothache and are unable to relieve the pain with home remedies like rinsing with warm salt water and taking over-the-counter pain medication, it’s important to contact your dentist as soon as possible for an examination. Depending on the cause of the toothache, your dentist may recommend further treatments such as antibiotics or extraction of the affected tooth.
Do cavities count as an emergency?
No, cavities typically do not count as a dental emergency. However, if you have an infection or severe toothache associated with your cavity that requires immediate attention, then it may qualify as an emergency. If so, it’s best to contact your dentist right away for guidance on what to do next.
Is a toothache a dental emergency?
Yes, a toothache can be a dental emergency if it is severe and accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling of the gums, fever, or facial swelling. If you experience any of these, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention in order to prevent further complications. If your pain is persistent or sudden and severe, it’s also recommended that you contact your dentist right away so they can diagnose the source of your pain and provide appropriate treatment.
Contact Pennsylvania Center for Dental Excellence For Emergency Care
At our dentist’s office, we understand that dental emergencies can arise at any time, and we are here to help. If you experience a severe toothache or another dental emergency, please contact our office immediately. We provide same-day appointments for dental emergencies, and our staff is trained to provide prompt attention and care. We will do our best to accommodate your needs during this difficult time. We aim to help you get back to a healthy smile as soon as possible.