Even if you do your best to care for your oral health, there is still a chance that you could find yourself facing an unexpected oral health problem. How can you tell if you should call your dentist to request an emergency appointment? This blog post provides information that can help you differentiate between urgent and non-urgent situations.
Recognizing Urgent Dental Emergencies
Urgent dental emergencies are typically painful, potentially life-threatening, and demand prompt intervention. Here are some common situations that require immediate attention:
Severe Toothache
A severe, throbbing toothache typically indicates a serious underlying problem, such as an infection. Infections can spread throughout the body if they do not receive prompt care.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth requires immediate action. If you can receive treatment within an hour or two, there is a chance it can be saved. Handling the tooth by the crown, rinse it gently before placing it back in your mouth or in a glass of milk. Bring it with you to your emergency dental appointment.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
Small chips and cracks may not require immediate attention, but major damage should be addressed right away. The damage can expose the inner layers of the tooth to bacteria, leading to infection and further complications.
Abscess
An abscess is a pus-filled pocket, which can indicate a serious dental infection. It may look like a pimple that forms on the gums.
Uncontrolled Bleeding
Uncontrolled bleeding in your mouth after trauma or dental procedures is a serious condition. Depending on the severity of the issue, you may need to visit the local ER.
Swelling or Infection
Swelling in your mouth, face, or neck, often accompanied by pain and fever, signals an infection that could spread rapidly. Emergency dental care is essential to curb the infection and prevent severe health risks.
Non-Urgent Dental Emergencies
Non-urgent dental emergencies, while uncomfortable, do not pose immediate health risks and can often wait a few days for an appointment. Here are some examples:
Minor Toothache
A mild toothache that comes and goes may indicate a small cavity, gum irritation, or another non-urgent oral health problem.
Lost Restorations
While losing a filling, crown, or veneer can be distressing, it is not typically an urgent emergency. Protect the exposed tooth with orthodontic wax and bring the restoration with you to your dental appointment.
Food Stuck Between Teeth
Food trapped between teeth can cause discomfort but is usually manageable without emergency intervention. Try to dislodge it gently with dental floss, avoiding sharp objects that could damage your gums.
When in Doubt, Call Your Dentist
If you are ever unsure whether a situation requires urgent dental care from your Lebanon dentist, simply give them a call and describe the situation. They can provide an expert opinion and help you get on the path to feeling better.
Meet the Practice
At Santavicca Dental Professionals, our skilled team of experts is often able to provide same-day emergency care. If you are experiencing dental pain or have other concerning symptoms, we invite you to call us right away. Contact our Lebanon office at 603-215-7108.