5 Common Dental Emergencies That Require Immediate Attention
No one wants to experience a dental emergency, but unfortunately, it can happen at any time. From broken teeth to abscesses, these situations require immediate attention from your dentist. Knowing what to do in these situations can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth. In this blog post, we will discuss five common dental emergencies and what steps you should take if they occur. So sit tight and get ready to learn how to handle dental emergencies like a pro!
Here are 5 Common Dental Emergencies You Should Know
When you have a dental emergency, time is of the essence. You need to get to a dentist or an emergency room as soon as possible to avoid further damage and pain. Here are some of the most common dental emergencies and what you can do to address them:
1. Broken Teeth
Broken teeth are one of the most common dental emergencies that require immediate attention. If you have a broken tooth, it is important to seek dental care right away to avoid further damage and infection.
There are several reasons why a tooth may break, including trauma, biting on hard objects, and decay. If the break is due to trauma, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to ensure that there is no other damage to the teeth or jaw. If the break is due to decay, the tooth will need to be repaired or replaced.
If you have a broken tooth, you may experience pain, swelling, and bleeding. You may also notice that your tooth looks different than it did before it was broken. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist right away.
2. Severe Toothache
If you are experiencing a severe toothache, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. A severe toothache can be caused by a number of things, including a cavity, an infection, or a cracked tooth. If left untreated, a severe toothache can lead to an abscess, which is a serious infection that can damage the surrounding teeth and bone.
3. Abscesses
An abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms in response to an infection. It can occur anywhere in the body, but most commonly develops in the teeth or gums. An abscessed tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention. If left untreated, an abscess can lead to serious health complications, including sepsis (a potentially life-threatening condition caused by infection).
The most common symptom of an abscessed tooth is severe pain. Other symptoms include:
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Swelling in the face or jaw
• Redness or inflammation of the gums
• A foul-tasting discharge from the affected tooth
If you think you may have an abscessed tooth, see your dentist or oral surgeon immediately. Treatment typically involves draining the pus and infection from the abscess and prescribing antibiotics to clear the infection. In some cases, a root canal procedure may be necessary to save the tooth.
4. Knocked Out or Avulsed Tooth
As soon as you notice that a tooth is knocked out or avulsed, it is important to seek emergency dental care. If possible, try to find the tooth and place it back in the socket. If this is not possible, put the tooth in a cup of milk or water and bring it with you to the dentist.
A knocked out or avulsed tooth is a serious dental emergency that requires immediate attention. If you delay treatment, there is a risk of losing the tooth entirely.
5. Swollen Jaw
A swollen jaw is a serious dental emergency that can be caused by a number of different things. If you have a swollen jaw, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
One of the most common causes of a swollen jaw is an abscess. An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms when the infection gets into the root of a tooth or in the space between the gum and tooth. Abscesses can be very painful and can cause the jaw to swell.
Another common cause of a swollen jaw is a broken tooth. A broken tooth can cause pain, swelling, and bleeding. It is important to seek medical attention for a broken tooth as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
If you have a swollen jaw, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. A swollen jaw can be caused by an abscess or by a broken tooth. Both of these conditions can be very painful and can lead to further complications if left untreated.
What To Do If You Have a Dental Emergency
If you experience a dental emergency, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. This is especially true if you are experiencing severe pain, bleeding, or have a broken tooth. Here are some tips on what to do if you have a dental emergency:
1. If you have a toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water and use floss to remove any food particles that may be stuck between your teeth. If the pain persists, take over-the-counter pain medication and contact your dentist right away.
2. If you have a chipped or broken tooth, try to find the pieces of the tooth and bring them with you to the dentist. Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling. Contact your dentist right away for an appointment.
3. If you think you may have an abscessed tooth, it is important to see a dentist right away as this can be a serious infection. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water and apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to reduce swelling until you can see a dentist.
Conclusion
Dental emergencies can be serious and require immediate attention from a professional. Whether it’s a broken tooth, an abscess, or any other oral health issue, the risk of infection and further damage increases with every passing minute. It’s important to take action as soon as possible by contacting your dentist for help. If you are a resident of Greeley and have a dental emergency, then contact Park View Family Dental to book an appointment with the best emergency dentist in Greeley, CO. With prompt treatment, you can avoid further complications down the road and ensure that your smile stays healthy for years to come.