Anyone who’s suffered a dental emergency will attest that, in those tense and sometimes scary moments, time and decisive action are of the essence. This is because, in most cases, dental emergencies are not only quite painful but can also pose serious threats to a person’s dental and overall health if neglected.
Today, we’re identifying symptoms of common dental emergencies and what you should do if you’re faced with them.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
Not all oral pain means a dental emergency. There are, however, certain symptoms that are telltale signals that immediate dental care is in order.
- Severe and persistent toothache
- Swelling of the jawbone and gums
- Bleeding from the mouth or gums for no apparent reason
- The loosening or loss of permanent teeth either due to traumatic direct or decay
- A broken dental crown, veneer, denture or other restoration
How To Respond To Different Dental Emergencies
- Severe toothache – Pain is your body’s alarm bell. Even mild toothaches that don’t represent emergencies must eventually be addressed. However, in cases in which unbearable pain is sudden, persistent, and resistant to icepacks, salt water rinses, and over-the-counter pain medication, immediate care is required.
- Swelling or bleeding of the gums – Swelling or bleeding of the gums for no apparent reason may signal an infection or dental abscess (pocket of pus around a tooth) that could result in tooth loss and calls for emergency care.
- Swelling of the jawbone – Inexplicable swelling of the jawbone may be a sign of an infection that could spread to other parts of the body.
- Tooth loss – The loss of permanent teeth is not normal. Whether due to impact or untreated decay, the loss of a tooth as an adult calls for immediate action. Fortunately, decisively following these few simple steps can actually help to save the tooth in question:
- Pick up the tooth, taking care not to touch the root
- Rinse off the tooth without scrubbing
- If possible, replace the tooth in its socket in the gum; otherwise, place the tooth in a container of milk or saliva
- Get to an emergency dentist as quickly as possible
To determine the best treatment option, reach out to your emergency dentist. We will go over all of your treatment options and help you make a choice that works best for you.
Dental Emergencies in Avondale
If you’re in Avondale and think you might need an emergency dentist or want to be prepared 'just in case,' contact Dr Sinan Najar and the Avondale Dental Centre team to arrange an appointment or consultation.