Dental emergencies can be caused by many different things, but they all have a common denominator: they are serious and should be treated right away. Whether you are dealing with a small toothache or something more major, there is always a dentist who can help you.
What Does an Emergency Dentist Do?
A dental emergency is any dental health concern that involves bleeding, severe pain, infection, or a tooth that’s at risk of falling out. This can include anything from a chipped tooth to a broken jaw bone.
The first thing your emergency dentist will do is find out what is wrong. Often, they will use x-rays to find the problem and determine the best treatment plan for you.
During this visit, your emergency dentist will also assess any swelling in your mouth or jaw. This can be a sign of a serious infection or irritation to your lymph nodes. Exposed nerves are another issue that can be cause for an emergency visit.
Your mouth and teeth contain numerous soft tissues, including the lips, gums, and interior of your cheeks. Any of these tissues can be hurt by trauma or even just by biting down on something hard or crunchy, such as a piece of pizza.
If you bite your lip, it can be very painful. In this case, rinsing with warm water and applying a cold compress can reduce the swelling and help you feel better until you get to the dentist’s office.
A swollen mouth is a sign of an emergency, as it may indicate an infection or other medical issue that needs to be addressed. An emergency dentist will likely prescribe antibiotics to treat the underlying issue.
An abscessed tooth is another common emergency that requires a trip to the dentist’s office. This is because the infection can spread throughout the body and could be life-threatening.
In addition to addressing the underlying issue, your emergency dentist will also provide you with relief from any pain that you are feeling. They may also recommend that you avoid foods or activities that might further aggravate the situation, such as chewing hard candy or playing sports.
Lastly, your emergency dentist will be able to remove the affected tooth if needed, or replace it with a filling if necessary. They will also be able to tell you how long the process will take and give you advice on what to do until your appointment.
While there are some dentists that are open 24 hours a day, most emergency dentists have normal business hours. Some of these clinics, however, may be open on weekends or holidays. This can make it harder to schedule an appointment, so it’s important to call ahead before heading out to see an emergency dentist.
Signs That You Need to See an Emergency Dentist
Dental Emergency Procedures to See an Emergency Dentist