We all know that you need to make an appointment with your dentist in case of a toothache. But in which cases should you go to a dental office immediately? In this article, we address a common question: What is a dental emergency? Additionally, we provide guidance on what to do in the event of an emergency.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
Several types of emergency dental issues require immediate medical attention:
Cracked, Chipped, or Broken Tooth
In some cases, cracks or chips of the tooth can expose the pulp inside. If this happens, bacteria and food particles will cause infection. Such an infection can quickly spread to the inner chambers and the roots of the tooth, leading to tooth loss. That is why it is essential to see your dentist immediately, even if seemingly minor cracks or chips occur. In cases when the tooth is broken at the gum line, it requires immediate extraction.
Dislodged or Knocked-Out Tooth
If your tooth gets partially dislodged or knocked out due to oral trauma, it is always a cause for seeing an emergency dentist as soon as possible. Dislodged or knocked-out teeth can be saved if timely care is provided. It is crucial to see your dentist within the first 30 minutes after the accident.
If your tooth is knocked out, bring it with you to the dental office. The primary objective is to keep the tooth alive until your dentist can see you. If the tooth is clean, try gently reinserting it into its socket or keeping it in your mouth between your cheek and gum, but be very careful not to swallow it.
If the tooth is dirty, carefully rinse it with clean water and then put it in a clean container filled with saliva or milk. You can also use an over-the-counter tooth preservation kit, if available to you. You have to keep the tooth moist at all times, but do not store it in water.
Oral Trauma or Lacerations in the Mouth
Sometimes, we can not see any damage after an oral trauma. However, the roots and nerves of the tooth can still be affected. If such damage is not diagnosed and addressed, it can lead to tooth loss. That is why we recommend having an X-ray after a trauma, even if there is no visible damage.
Severe Tooth Ache
A severe toothache is almost always a sign of an acute oral infection. Such infections can lead to tooth loss, spread to the surrounding tissue, or even cause an abscess if not addressed immediately.
Lost or Broken Dental Restoration
When a dental restoration, such as a bridge, a crown, or a veneer, is broken or dislodged, bacteria can access the tooth underneath the restoration, causing infection. That is why we advise against postponing a visit to a dental office if you break or lose your restoration.
Severe Gum Disease
Advanced gum disease can have the following symptoms:
- Severe gum bleeding
- Pus oozing from the gums or pimples and cysts on the gums
- Darkening of the gum tissue
- Unstable teeth
- Pain in the gums
- Persistent bad breath and unpleasant taste in the mouth
Advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss and destroy the jawbone structure. In addition, it can lead to issues with joints, heart, and lungs, and affect the blood sugar levels. Thus, we recommend seeing your dentist immediately if you notice any signs of gum disease.
Contact Glendora Family Dental in Case of Emergency
If you have a dental emergency, do not hesitate to contact our office to see an experienced dentist. Our specialists strive to preserve the oral health of each client and offer a variety of emergency procedures.
