While many businesses, events and schools were shut down in the state of New York, your dental care needs keep on going. Are you doing your part at home to protect your oral health? Diligent dental hygiene can prevent most dental issues, but there are some dental concerns that can’t be prevented or predicted. A true dental emergency, for example, can’t be addressed on your own. Knowing when to reach out and see an emergency dentist is important, as you can suffer through worsening pain and more complicated treatments if you ignore a dental emergency. The question becomes – can you identify a dental emergency?
When it comes to an unexpected dental concern, it can be difficult to tell what warrants emergency dental care and what situations can wait to be addressed during a regular dental visit. To help, here are some signs of a true dental emergency that needs a prompt call to your dentist:
Tooth Loss
A permanent tooth that was knocked out unexpectedly needs urgent treatment because the tooth may be able to be replanted back into the socket and saved.
Extreme Pain
Severe dental pain is never easy to ignore. If there is not a food particle lodged between your teeth and OTC pain relievers don’t provide lasting relief, it is time to call your dentist. Severe pain can indicate infection.
Tooth Abscess or Pus
If you find pus in your mouth or suspect a tooth abscess (pocket of infection), you likely need antibiotics prescribed by an emergency dentist. If left untreated, a tooth abscess can lead to further dental problems and the spread of a dangerous infection in your body.
Swelling
Another sign of an oral infection that warrants emergency care is the puffiness or inflammation of the jawline or gum line.
Cracked or Chipped Tooth
Not all tooth fractures elicit pain. However, when a tooth crack or chip brings wincing sensitivity or sharp twinges of pain when biting down, you have likely damaged the tooth enough to expose its nerves. At this point, your tooth is in danger and may need prompt repair.
No one wants to experience a dental emergency, especially during a pandemic. However, if you notice any of these symptoms, it is critical that you see an emergency dentist as soon as possible so that your overall health is not threatened. At Group Health Dental, we are committed to effective emergency dental care with patient safety as our highest priority. Call us today if you suspect a dental emergency.
