Dental issues can range from mildly uncomfortable to excruciatingly painful. While some problems can wait for a scheduled dental appointment, others require immediate attention. Knowing when to seek emergency dentistry could prevent a minor issue from becoming a major complication. By paying attention to your oral health, you can better prevent the need for emergency dental care.
Severe Tooth Pain That Doesn’t Go Away
Toothaches are common, but when pain becomes severe, persistent, or throbbing, it’s time to take action. Constant tooth pain could indicate an abscess or infection deep within the tooth or gums. These infections can spread quickly to other parts of the body if not treated promptly. Emergency dentistry could provide relief and address the root cause of the problem, potentially preventing serious health complications.
Knocked-Out or Loose Teeth
Accidents happen, whether it’s a sports injury, a fall, or a sudden impact, teeth can get knocked out or loosened. If a tooth is knocked out, getting to an emergency dentist within 30 to 60 minutes can significantly increase the chances of saving the tooth. Handle the tooth carefully, avoiding the root. Even if a tooth is only loose and not completely dislodged, it still requires immediate attention to prevent further damage and to assess any injury to the surrounding bone or tissue.
Swelling and Signs of Infection
Swelling in the face, jaw, or gums can be a sign of a serious infection, especially when accompanied by fever or difficulty swallowing or breathing. These are signs that the infection may be spreading, and waiting could lead to life-threatening complications. An emergency dentist can diagnose the issue and provide necessary treatments like drainage, antibiotics, or even surgery if needed.
Bleeding That Won’t Stop
Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing is usually a sign of gum disease, but bleeding that won’t stop after an injury, tooth extraction, or dental procedure is a red flag. Continuous bleeding could indicate an underlying problem with clotting or be a symptom of trauma that needs immediate professional care. It’s crucial to control bleeding as soon as possible and have a dentist evaluate the injury to prevent further complications.
Broken or Chipped Teeth
While a minor chip in a tooth might not be urgent, a broken or severely damaged tooth can expose the sensitive inner layers, causing pain and increasing the risk of infection. If you’re in pain, bleeding, or notice sharp edges that could injure your tongue or gums, emergency dental care is warranted. In some cases, immediate treatment could preserve the structure of the tooth and reduce the need for more invasive procedures down the line.
Loss of a Dental Restoration
Crowns, fillings, and bridges aren’t permanent, and they can fall out or become loose. While not all cases are immediate emergencies, they can lead to sensitivity, discomfort, and increased risk of damage to the exposed tooth. If the missing restoration causes pain or leaves a sharp edge, you should seek emergency dental care. Even without pain, it’s a good idea to have the situation evaluated promptly to prevent further damage.
Trust Your Instincts
If you’re experiencing unusual pain, discomfort, or symptoms that worry you, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Dental emergencies can escalate quickly, and early intervention is key to preventing permanent damage or complications. Emergency dentistry is designed to provide fast, effective relief and preserve your oral health in critical situations.
Emergency Dental Care in Media, PA
Your oral health is an essential part of your overall well-being. If you suffer a dental emergency, visit Dr. Gregory Hillyard and Dr. Alexandra Hillyard Monroe. Schedule your appointment today to preserve your oral health and prevent further damage.