What is Considered an Emergency in Dentistry?

If your teeth or gums are bothering you, it is most likely time for a dental checkup. But how do you know if an oral problem is a true dental emergency that necessitates immediate treatment? In addition to our other services, Ideal Dental has a location near you that offers emergency dental procedures. Here are some guidelines to help you understand what constitutes a true dental emergency.

Examining Your Situation

When you understand the symptoms of a dental emergency, you can decide whether you need to schedule an immediate appointment for treatment. Here are some questions to ask yourself if you suspect you are experiencing a dental emergency:

Is it true that I’m in a lot of pain? When it comes to your oral health, severe pain is never normal. Extreme pain could indicate a cracked tooth or an infection that needs to be treated right away.

Is there a loose tooth/teeth in my mouth? Teeth in adults should never be loose. When a person’s “baby teeth” fall out, the adult teeth should remain intact. A loose tooth is almost always an emergency situation.

Is it possible that a tooth has been knocked out? A dental emergency is defined as a blow to the face or head that dislodges a tooth. Rapid treatment may result in the tooth being saved.

Is there blood in my mouth? Bleeding from the mouth is sometimes enough to warrant immediate medical attention, especially if the bleeding continues.
Is it possible that I have an infection? An abscessed tooth or an infection in the mouth can be potentially fatal. Swelling of the gums or face as a result of a dental infection is usually regarded as an emergency.

Conditions that frequently necessitate emergency dental care

The following are some of the most common dental emergencies treated at Ideal Dental clinics:

• Fillings that are loose or broken: Fillings are used to fill cavities in the teeth and prevent further decay. If a filling becomes loose or falls out, it should be replaced as soon as possible.
• Broken Crowns: Crowns can become loose or break at any time (or disappear completely). Bring the crown with you to an emergency appointment if you still have it so we can figure out why it came loose.
• Broken or cracked teeth: Any facial injury that results in broken or cracked teeth should be treated as an emergency. The sooner a broken tooth is treated, the less likely that the tooth will need to be extracted.
• Oral Infections: A painful infection of the teeth or gums can be a life-threatening medical emergency. Without treatment, the infection can spread to other parts of the body. If an abscess causes swelling in the cheeks or gums, it may need to be drained during an emergency appointment.
• Extreme Tooth Pain: If a tooth is causing you severe pain, it indicates that something is seriously wrong. Immediate treatment, which may include tooth extraction, is the most effective way to relieve pain quickly.

Dentists can provide you with immediate relief if you have a dental emergency. If you have an emergency, contact your nearest Dental office and request an emergency appointment.