We've all been there ? that sudden twinge of pain in your tooth that won't go away, or perhaps a mishap during a weekend football match that leaves you with a broken tooth. Dental emergencies can happen to anyone at any time, and it's important to know what constitutes an emergency and when to seek help.
Dental emergencies are not uncommon at Purley Dental Care and other dental offices. While some situations might seem dire, not all dental issues require immediate attention. However, knowing which ones do can make all the difference in saving a tooth or preventing further complications.
Here are the most common dental emergencies we often encounter:
Severe Toothache
A persistent, throbbing toothache that doesn't respond to over-the-counter pain relievers is often a sign of a deeper problem. It could indicate an infection, an abscess, or advanced decay. If you're experiencing this kind of pain, it's best to get it checked out.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is a time-sensitive emergency. If handled correctly and quickly, it can be saved. Rinse it gently without scrubbing, try to place it back in the socket, and see a dentist immediately.
Chipped or Broken Tooth
While small chips might not require emergency care, larger breaks or fractures can be painful and leave your tooth vulnerable to infection. It's best to have these addressed quickly to prevent further damage.
Lost Filling or Crown
Losing a filling or crown might not seem like an emergency, but it can leave your tooth exposed and sensitive. It's important to have it replaced as soon as possible to protect the tooth from further decay or damage.
Abscess
An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It can occur at the root of a tooth or in the space between the teeth and gums. Abscesses can be extremely painful, and if left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth ? lips, tongue, cheeks, or gums can result in significant bleeding. Due to the rich blood supply in the mouth, these injuries often look worse than they are, but they still require prompt attention.
Object Stuck Between Teeth
having something lodged between your teeth can be quite painful and potentially damaging if not removed properly. If you can't dislodge it with gentle flossing, you should seek professional help.
When Should You See a Dentist?
Dental issues that cause severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or risk tooth loss should be treated as emergencies. If you're ever in doubt, it's always better to err on the side of caution and contact your dentist.
While we hope you never have to deal with a dental emergency, it's good to be prepared. Keep your dentist's contact information handy, and don't hesitate to reach out if you're concerned. When it comes to your teeth, it's always better to be safe than sorry.
Also, many dental emergencies can be prevented with regular check-ups and good oral hygiene. So, along with knowing how to handle emergencies, make sure you're taking steps to keep your teeth healthy every day. Your future self (and your teeth) will thank you!