Dental emergencies are not only common these days but can be painful, frightening, and often require immediate attention. Identifying a dental emergency and seeking urgent dental care can make a significant difference in preserving your oral health.
Some common dental emergencies include severe toothaches, pain, infections, and trauma. Before rushing to the emergency dentist in Berwick, it is crucial to distinguish between a dental emergency and a minor dental issue.
Let us explore some essential tips to recognise a dental emergency and understand when it’s crucial to rush to the dentist.
Tips To Identify a Dental Emergency
Persistent Toothache
One of the most common signs of a dental emergency is a persistent and severe toothache. Ignoring persistent tooth pain can lead to more extensive and costly dental treatments down the road. Experiencing sharp, or constant pain in your teeth or jaw that doesn’t subside with over-the-counter pain relievers or home remedies indicates the dental emergency and the need to contact your dentist. This could be an infection, abscess, or other serious dental issue that requires immediate attention.
Broken or Knocked-Out Teeth
Broken or chipped teeth because of an accident is also a dental emergency. It is crucial to respond quickly after suffering from a dental injury.
- Try to gently place the tooth back into its socket without touching the root if your tooth gets knocked out. If this is not possible, keep it in a container with milk or saliva and see a dentist immediately. Treating a knocked-out tooth at the right time is crucial.
- For broken or chipped teeth, rinse your mouth with warm water and save any broken pieces if possible. Contact your dentist immediately to determine the extent of the damage and receive proper treatment.
Swelling and Inflammation
Swelling and inflammation of the gums, or face, can indicate an underlying dental issue, such as an infection or an abscess. If left untreated, these can turn severe and difficult to treat afterward. Consequently, consider seeking dental attention if you notice swelling accompanied by swelling or any other symptoms.
Bleeding Gums
While occasional minor bleeding during brushing or flossing may not be alarming, persistent and heavy bleeding from the gums could be a sign of gum disease or another underlying problem. Schedule a dental appointment with your dentist in Berwick if your gums bleed excessively.
Loose or Dislodged Dental Appliances
If you have dental appliances such as braces, bridges, or dentures and they become loose, dislodged, or cause severe discomfort, it’s essential to see your dentist promptly. Improperly fitting or damaged appliances can lead to further dental issues if not addressed promptly.
Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a pus-forming within the teeth, gums, or bone. It is often accompanied by severe pain, fever, and swelling. An abscess is a dental emergency and should be treated promptly to prevent the infection from spreading.
Severe Jaw Pain or Difficulty Opening the Mouth
If you experience severe jaw pain or have difficulty opening your mouth, it could be a sign of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder or another serious dental issue. Consult your dentist in Berwick to get an appropriate treatment.
Lost Dental Fillings
If you have a dental filling or crown that breaks or falls out, it can expose the sensitive underlying tooth structure. This can lead to pain and increased vulnerability to decay. Reach out to your dentist promptly to fix your dental filling and protect the affected tooth.
Oral Ulcers
Persistent and painful oral ulcers or lesions could be a sign of a more significant issue, such as oral cancer or a viral infection. Timely evaluation by an emergency dentist in Berwick or an oral healthcare professional is vital for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
Recognising a dental emergency and seeking timely dental care is crucial for preserving your oral health and preventing potentially severe complications. Dental emergencies can be painful and lead to more complex and costly treatments if left unaddressed. Regular dental check-ups can go a long way in preventing dental emergencies by identifying and addressing issues before they take severe turns. Book your appointment with your trusted emergency dentist in Narre Warren now if you are also experiencing these signs.