How You Can Determine What Dental Emergencies Are
There are a few different scenarios that would generally be considered dental emergencies. If you have a tooth that has been knocked out, are experiencing a severe toothache, have a large amount of swelling in your mouth or face, or have a cut or laceration on your tongue, gums, or cheek, you should seek emergency dental care right away.
But what constitutes one, and how do you determine them?
First, Ask Yourself These Questions
- Am I experiencing severe pain or heavy bleeding? This may signify a more serious condition, and you should seek medical attention immediately.
- Is there an infection in my mouth? If you feel you have or spot an abscess or serious infection, you should seek treatment immediately, as it could be life-threatening.
- Do I have a lost tooth? It’s important to seek treatment quickly. There is a possibility the tooth can be saved if you receive treatment soonest. If you do, see a dentist right away. Adults should never lose teeth, so a loose tooth is a serious problem. Even if you’re not in pain, you need to have it checked out.
Then, Pay Attention to These Most Common Signs
- Sudden toothaches: Your teeth are important for more than just aesthetics. They are integral for proper chewing and digesting food, speaking clearly, and maintaining good oral health. When you have a toothache, it can quickly disrupt your daily life and routine. While there are many potential causes of tooth pain, it is important to seek professional dental care as soon as possible to ensure that the issue is properly diagnosed and treated. Emergency dental care can help you get relief from your toothache and get your life back to normal.
- Gum problems: If your gums are bleeding for no reason or while brushing them, it’s a good idea to see your dentist. They can determine if there’s an underlying issue causing the bleeding.
- Swelling in the mouth or jaw: If your mouth or jaw suddenly becomes swollen for no apparent reason, you should visit an emergency dentist for immediate treatment. An infection, irritation to your lymph nodes, or some other factor may be causing the swelling, and professional dental care is necessary.
- Exposed nerves: Exposed nerves are extremely painful and can lead to infection, further nerve damage, or serious dental problems. Seek dental help immediately.
- A knocked-out tooth: If you have pearly whites that have been knocked out of the gumline, it’s important to take quick action. If you see a dentist right away, they may be able to reinsert and preserve them.
- Missing filling(s): If you have a missing tooth filling, it’s important to call your dentist right away. Without the filling, your tooth is at risk of breaking, chipping, and exposing the nerves. This can lead to other dental issues that require immediate treatment.
- Damaged crowns: If your dental crown falls off or breaks, it’s important to schedule an emergency dental visit to replace it. Without a dental crown, your tooth is exposed and vulnerable to infection and damage.
Get a Dentist from Weymouth to Solve All These and More
If you’re unsure about dental emergencies, you can drop by Weymouth Dental Arts immediately! We’re a clinic that provides customized dental care to patients of all ages. Book your appointment through our website!