Dental emergencies can happen at any time and can be quite distressing. Whether it’s a severe toothache, a cracked or broken tooth, or a knocked-out tooth, these situations require immediate attention from an emergency dentist. Knowing when to seek emergency dental care can help you prevent further damage and alleviate pain. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
This refers to any situation that requires a dentist’s immediate attention to save a tooth, stop bleeding, or relieve severe pain. Some common dental emergencies include:
- Toothache
- Broken or chipped tooth
- Knocked-out tooth
- Lost filling or crown
- Abscess or infection
- Broken braces or wires
- Jaw pain or swelling
When to Seek Emergency Dental Care?
Severe Toothache
This be a sign of an underlying dental problem, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or an abscess. If you experience severe tooth pain that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter pain medication, it’s time to see an emergency dentist. If you delay treatment, it can result in additional problems like the loss of a tooth or infection.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
If you have a broken or chipped tooth, you should see a dentist right away. A cracked tooth can expose the nerves and blood vessels inside the tooth, causing severe pain and sensitivity. A chip in the tooth can also lead to decay or infection if left untreated.
Knocked-out Tooth
If you lose a tooth because of a sports injury, accident, or any other injury, it is important to get emergency dental care as soon as possible. Delaying the treatment can decrease the chances of saving the tooth. A knocked-out tooth can be re-implanted if you reach the dentist within an hour or so.
Lost Filling or Crown
If you’ve lost a filling or crown, call an emergency dentist as soon as you can. A missing filling or crown can expose the sensitive tooth structure, leading to pain and discomfort. It can also cause the tooth to weaken and become more susceptible to decay or fracture.
Abscess or Infection
When there is a dental abscess or infection, it is a severe problem that demands prompt attention. An abscess develops as a result of an infection forming a pocket filled with pus in the mouth. If not treated immediately, it can cause swelling, excruciating pain, and even life-threatening complications.
Broken Braces or Wires
If you have braces or wires that are broken or loose, it’s important to see an emergency dentist right away. This can cause discomfort and even lead to injury if the wires poke into your mouth. An emergency dentist can adjust or repair the braces to prevent further complications.
Jaw Pain or Swelling
Experiencing jaw pain or swelling may indicate a severe dental problem, such as an abscess or infection. Seeking immediate attention from an emergency dentist is crucial in this situation, as it could pose a threat to one’s life if left untreated.
Conclusion
Dental emergencies can be frightening and cause immense discomfort, but recognizing when to seek emergency dental care can help prevent further damage and alleviate pain. In case of any of the emergencies mentioned above, do not hesitate to contact an emergency dentist immediately. They are available 24/7 and can offer the necessary care and treatment to enable a quick return to a normal life. It is essential to note that prevention is better than cure; thus, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can help avoid dental emergencies.
Ensure your family’s dental health is handled by scheduling an appointment with Waban Dental Group today. With comprehensive dental services and over three decades of experience, our team is committed to providing top-quality care to each patient. Visit our dental office in Newton, MA.
