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What is a dental emergency?
Any problem with your teeth, mouth or gums that requires urgent dental treatment is a dental emergency. Specifically, this can include:
Broken, Chipped, or Knocked Out Tooth
A broken or chipped tooth can usually be repaired, but it will necessitate immediate dental care. The dentist may be able to repair the fracture or chip with a filling, whereas more serious breaks may necessitate a crown or root canal.
A dentist may be able to replace a knocked-out tooth within an hour of the incident. Within this time frame, the tooth has a better chance of taking root again. After two hours, the chances decrease significantly, and alternative measures must be considered.
Severe Toothache
If you have a toothache that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain relievers, apply ice to the affected area and call your dentist as soon as possible, as this is considered a dental emergency.
Toothaches can indicate potential major dental issues, and so it is important to take them seriously.
Lost Filling
The interior of your tooth is exposed when a filling is lost, weakening the tooth's structure. It's crucial to visit a dentist right away to have the filling replaced. A piece of softened sugarless gum can temporarily replace the filling in order to protect the area until you can see the dentist.
Object Lodged Between Teeth
A dentist should be contacted right away if something gets stuck between your teeth because it could be dangerous. Avoid using a sharp object to try to remove the object yourself if flossing does not work because you risk pushing it deeper between your teeth or hurting your gums.
Bitten Tongue or Lip
After biting your tongue or lip, bleeding that won't stop necessitates medical attention should be sought at an urgent care facility. Apply a fresh cloth and press it firmly against the bleeding area of the mouth in the interim. Find urgent dental care and apply an ice pack to reduce swelling.
Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms inside the teeth or gums. This excruciatingly painful condition is usually caused by a bacterial infection, which occurs within the soft pulp of the tooth or the root of the tooth. They can be caused by an untreated cavity, severe gum disease, or even a chipped tooth.
A bad taste in your mouth, swollen glands, pain, pus, or a fever are all possible symptoms. An abscessed tooth usually necessitates surgery to drain the infection and properly treat it. Root canal surgery may be used to treat dental abscesses.