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An emergency dentist is equipped to handle urgent dental problems that occur outside of regular office hours or need immediate treatment to relieve pain, stop bleeding, or save a tooth. They provide focused care for sudden and severe issues, giving you a clear path forward when you need help fast. Understanding which problems count as emergencies prepares you to act decisively. Here is when to see an emergency dentist:
Broken Tooth
A broken or cracked tooth needs prompt attention. If a large piece of your tooth breaks off or if the break causes sharp pain, seeing an emergency dentist is a good step. A minor chip might not seem urgent, but a significant fracture may expose sensitive inner layers of the tooth, leading to pain and potential infection.
When you break a tooth, try to find and save any broken pieces. Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. If you experience swelling, applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek may offer some relief while you arrange for dental care. The dentist will assess the damage and determine the ideal way to address the break.
Knocked-out Tooth
Losing a permanent tooth is a clear dental emergency. Acting fast may allow you to save the tooth. If your tooth gets knocked out, pick it up by the crown, which is the part you chew with. Avoid touching the root. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with milk or water, but avoid scrubbing it or using soap.
The next step is to try to place the tooth back into its socket. If this is possible, hold it in place by gently biting down on a piece of gauze. If you cannot reinsert it, put the tooth in a small container of milk or your own saliva to keep it moist.
You must get to an emergency dentist as soon as possible, ideally within an hour, for assessment. Handle the tooth with care to prevent further damage while transporting it. Acting quickly and efficiently may significantly improve the chances of saving the tooth.
Severe Tooth Pain
Persistent, severe tooth pain is a signal from your body that something is wrong. While a mild toothache might not be an emergency, pain that is intense, throbbing, or keeps you from sleeping or eating requires immediate evaluation. Deep decay, a hidden fracture, or an infection might cause this type of pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers may provide temporary relief, but they do not solve the underlying problem. An emergency dentist can diagnose the source of the pain.
Infected Areas
An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms around the root of a tooth or in the gums. This is a severe infection that needs immediate dental care. Signs of an abscess include:
- A painful, pimple-like swelling on your gums
- Severe, persistent toothache
- Fever
- Swelling in your face or cheek
- A foul taste in your mouth
An untreated dental abscess can lead to more widespread health issues. An emergency dentist will need to drain the abscess and address the source of the infection.
See an Emergency Dentist Today
Dental emergencies can be unsettling, but knowing how to respond gives you a sense of control. For problems like a broken or knocked-out tooth, severe pain, or signs of infection, seeking immediate care is the right choice. Prompt action can help alleviate discomfort and address the issue effectively. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, contact a dental clinic for assistance.
