Main Reasons to Book an Emergency Dentist Appointment
When it comes to dental discomfort or injuries, the line between needing an immediate appointment and a regular check-up can sometimes be unclear. Knowing when to seek emergency dental care is crucial for your oral health and can also prevent further complications. In this article, we’ll explore the primary reasons that necessitate calling your dentist posthaste. If you live in Hampshire, check out the Hampshire emergency dentist.
Severe Toothache
While toothaches can vary in intensity, a severe toothache that causes excruciating pain might indicate an underlying issue, such as an abscess or severe infection, which requires immediate attention. Delaying treatment could result in increased pain and potential tooth loss.
Chipped or Broken Teeth
Teeth can chip or break due to a variety of reasons, such as trauma, biting on something hard, or cavities weakening the tooth. If you’ve chipped or broken a tooth, it’s important to see a dentist immediately to prevent further damage and infection, and potentially save the tooth.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth is knocked out, there is a short window in which a dentist may be able to reinsert and preserve it. Save the tooth, if possible, and avoid touching the root. You should consult a dentist right away, ideally within an hour of the incident.
Loose Tooth
An adult tooth should never be loose. A loose tooth, especially after an injury, requires urgent dental advice. More so, a loose tooth coupled with severe pain is a red flag and should be treated as soon as possible, as it could be a sign of injury to the teeth or the supporting structures.
Bleeding and Aching Gums
While occasional gum bleeding can occur if you floss too hard or switch to a new toothbrush, persistent or severe gum bleeding accompanied by pain might be a sign of periodontal disease. Early treatment can prevent more serious gum issues and tooth loss.
Abscessed Tooth
An abscess is a serious infection that occurs at the root of a tooth or in the space between the teeth and gums. It is a life-threatening condition that can cause symptoms like severe pain, swelling, fever, and pimples on your gums. Emergency treatment is critical to drain the abscess and treat the infection.
Dental Surgery Complications
If you’ve recently had dental surgery and are experiencing abnormal swelling, bleeding, or pain, it might indicate an infection or other complications. Reaching out to a dentist for emergency care is vital to prevent any further issues.
Unexplained Tooth Sensitivity
Sudden, acute sensitivity to hot or cold, which could be due to a fracture, decay, or a loose filling, warrants an emergency dental visit. The dentist can determine the root cause and prevent the situation from worsening.
Conclusion
Your teeth should last a lifetime, but occasionally, unexpected dental problems can arise. Should you experience any of the issues listed above, it’s critical to contact an emergency dentist for advice and treatment. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene can prevent most dental emergencies, but knowing how to act when one occurs could save your smile.
Remember, an emergency dentist is trained to handle severe oral health issues, and prompt treatment often leads to better outcomes. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you suspect you have a dental emergency on your hands.