What Is Considered A Dental Emergency?

You mind your own business, eating a bag of chips, when suddenly– OUCH!– you bite down on something hard. Upon further inspection, you realize it’s a piece of your tooth. Now what?

Do you call your dentist or head to the ER? First, take a deep breath. It’s going to be okay. Second, let’s figure out if this is an emergency or not. If you found this page with a search for “emergency dental near me,” here are some qualified dental emergencies and what you can do about them.

An Unexplainable Toothache

In some cases, a simple filling will do the trick. However, if the pain is more severe, you may need a root canal or other types of dental surgery. Either way, getting the problem checked out as soon as possible is essential to avoid further damage to your teeth and gums.

Bleeding or Swollen Gums

Gum bleeding could be a sign of gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. Swollen gums could also be a sign of infection. In both cases, you should see a dentist as soon as possible.

Chipped or Broken Tooth

One common dental emergency is a chipped or broken tooth. This can happen if you take a fall or bite down on something hard. If you have a chipped or broken tooth, it’s essential to see a dentist immediately. Delaying treatment for a chipped or broken tooth can lead to more severe dental issues and can even result in tooth loss. An emergency dentist near you can provide a prompt and effective way to relieve pain and infection. They will be able to assess the damage and determine the best course of treatment.

Sometimes, the tooth can be repaired with a filling or crown. In more severe cases, the tooth may need to be extracted. Don’t wait to seek dental care if you have a chipped or broken tooth. Visit your dentist as soon as possible to have the problem fixed.

A Broken Crown

Crowns are used to strengthen teeth that are damaged or have been weakened by decay. While crowns are durable, they can sometimes break due to trauma or excessive wear and tear. If a crown breaks, it is important to seek dental treatment immediately, as the tooth may be at risk of further damage.

There are several ways to repair a broken crown, and the most appropriate method will depend on the severity of the break. In some cases, the crown can be re-cemented into place. However, if the break is more severe, the crown may need to be replaced entirely. In either case, it is important to seek dental treatment as soon as possible to minimize the risk of further damage to the tooth.

A Missing Filling

A missing filling may not seem like an emergency dental near me, but exposed nerves are painful and susceptible to further damage and infection. See your dentist immediately.

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

1. Stay Calm

In any dental emergency, it’s important to stay calm. Panicking can make the situation more stressful and hinder clear thinking.

2. Contact Your Dentist

Reach out to your dentist as soon as possible to explain the situation and seek guidance. Many dental offices have emergency contact numbers for after-hours situations.

3. Temporary Pain Relief

While awaiting professional help, you can manage pain with over-the-counter pain relievers and apply a cold compress to the affected area.

4. Preserve Dislodged Teeth or Fragments

If you’ve lost a tooth or fragments, handle them carefully. Preserve teeth in milk or a tooth preservation kit, and promptly bring them to the dentist.

5. Avoid Self-Treatment

While home remedies might provide temporary relief, they can’t replace professional dental care. Avoid using sharp objects to manipulate teeth or attempting to perform procedures yourself.

Emergency Dental Near Me: In Closing

These are just some examples of dental emergencies. If you’re ever unsure whether or not something qualifies as one, err on the side of caution and call emergency dental near me. Dental emergencies can happen anytime, but knowing what qualifies as one and how to handle different situations can help reduce stress levels.

What Is Considered A Dental Emergency? – 2024