When we think of a health emergency a lot of the time we do not think about teeth but, dental emergencies are also important and need immediate assistance to avoid the worsening of the situation. Understanding dental emergencies and when to seek help will help in the management of your oral health is extremely important. Here are a few things that constitutes a dental emergency, and the right approach you should take.
Severe Toothache
Crippling and persistent toothache is usually an indication of some other ailment for example infection or abscess. However, if pain medication can be bought without a prescription and does not help or if the pain is also associated with swelling or fever, then it is necessary to turn to an emergency dentist.
Knocked-Out Tooth
Sometimes, mishaps occur and a tooth may get knocked out and this is quite frequent in children and sporting individuals. If a tooth is knocked out, do not touch the root hold it by the crown and rinse it with water. If it is still in the socket, attempt to replace it, otherwise, keep it in milk and see a dentist at the earliest convenience. Milk contains several substances that the cells on the root need to survive, including sugars, antibacterial agents, and proteins that maintain the right balance of acids.
Chipped or Cracked Tooth
A cracked or chipped tooth will be very painful and may lead to complications such as infection. Swish your mouth with warm water and then place an ice bag on the cheek to bring down the swelling. Do not use that part of your mouth to chew and consult your dentist as soon as possible.
Loose or Dislodged Filling/Crown
If a filling or a crown was to come out or become displaced, the filling or crown can become a source of harm to the tooth because it leaves a gap which could be breached by bacteria. Do not chew on that side of your mouth and rush to a dentist to have a tooth fixed or get an implant.
Trauma to Soft Tissues
Injuries to the soft tissues in the mouth which include cuts, puncture wounds, or tears to the lips, cheeks, or the tongue will lead to bleeding and pain. To help control bleeding, one should apply a mild pressure and to visit a dentist to avoid complications and promote healing of the affected area.
Abscess or Gum Infection
An abscess is a pimple like swelling that develops at the base of a tooth or between the gum and a tooth. The signs and symptoms may include unbearable toothache, swelling of the gum, fever, and feeling of bad smell or taste in the mouth. If left unattended, abscesses have the potential to cause severe problems; hence, one should visit an emergency dentist.
Persistent Bleeding After Extraction
Some amount of bleeding may occur after a tooth extraction but if the bleeding does not stop within the first few hours, then it may be an indication of a complication like failure to form a clot or other complications. In case of continuous bleeding, please consult with your dentist and seek for more instructions.
Orthodontic Emergencies
Problems with orthodontic appliances like braces can cause soreness and even other oral complications. In the case of a wired brace, if a wire pokes through the cheek or gum, use dental wax to cover it and get an appointment with the Orthodontist to have it fixed.
Jaw Pain or Fracture
We will discuss in this case, jaw pain or fracture which may result from an accident or other forms of dental problem. If you have any of these symptoms, it will be best to visit your dentist or a doctor; if you are unable to open your mouth wide or have a very difficult time doing so, if your jaw is swollen, or if you have pain that does not go away.
Sudden Dental Infections
Dental infections are rather swift and can lead to such symptoms as pain, swelling, and fever. In case of any of the above symptoms, it is advisable to see a dentist for examination and appropriate intervention.
Dental emergencies require urgent dental treatment and intervention, and if not attended to promptly, they may lead to the worsening of the patient’s oral health. Thus, it is crucial to know the signs and symptoms of a dental emergency and what measures should be taken. So always it is advisable to visit your dentist or seek out emergency dental care service if you are having a dental problem.
