Dental emergencies show up when you least expect them. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, unplanned tooth extractions, or an accident, dental emergencies can be painful and discomforting. It may pose a serious risk to your health.
While you can handle some dental issues with a regular appointment, others may require immediate attention. If handled on time, emergency dental services can provide immediate relief and prevent further complications.
This article will discuss the top five symptoms of a dental emergency and provide insights on when it’s time to take action quickly.
What is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency refers to any issue involving the teeth and supporting tissues that require immediate attention.
These emergencies can range from severe toothaches to damaged teeth or infections. Ignoring these problems can worsen the condition and lead to further complications, such as infection or tooth loss.
Research states that approximately 2 million people visit emergency rooms each year in the United States due to dental emergencies, such as toothaches, infections, or injuries.
Top 5 Symptoms of a Dental Emergency
Several symptoms can indicate dental emergencies. However, the signs listed below must never be ignored or taken lightly.
Severe Toothache That Won’t Go Away
A toothache is one of the most common symptoms of dental emergency. While mild discomfort can result from sensitivity or minor irritation, a persistent, severe toothache is a red flag. This pain might indicate:
- Infection or abscess
- Advanced tooth decay
- Gum disease
If you experience intense pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure to the tooth, it’s crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible. If left untreated, an infection can spread, leading to more serious health issues.
According to a study, around 91% of dental emergencies involve severe tooth pain due to abscesses or decay.
Broken or Chipped Teeth
Eating something hard can cause teeth to chip, which needs immediate treatment to avoid other infections. Accidents can also lead to chipped, cracked, or broken teeth.
A small crack may not look like an emergency, but a tooth break or fracture can expose the inner layers of the teeth. If not treated immediately, it can lead to:
- Increased sensitivity
- Pain
- Infection risk
A knocked-out tooth is classified as a dental emergency if it causes intense pain or severe damage. The American Dental Association advises seeking treatment within 30 minutes of the incident, as this is the best chance to save the tooth.
Swollen Face or Gums
Severe throbbing tooth pain and fever may indicate a dental abscess. An abscess is a severe infection in the form of a pus-filled pocket around the tooth or gums. It needs to be treated promptly to avoid complications.
Swelling can be a sign that the infection has spread beyond the tooth to surrounding tissues, and in some cases, this can be life-threatening if not addressed quickly. In many cases, this swelling is caused by:
- An infected tooth
- Gum infection (periodontitis)
- Impacted wisdom teeth
Loose or Knocked-Out Teeth
For adults, loose or knocked-out teeth are clear indicators of a dental emergency. Whether caused by trauma, sports injuries, or an accident, a tooth that becomes dislodged requires urgent care.
Time is of the essence in these cases, as the faster you receive treatment, the more likely your dentist can save the tooth. If a knocked-out tooth is placed back into its socket within 30 minutes to an hour, there is a 90% chance of successful reattachment.
Things to Do If a Tooth Gets Knocked Out
- Hold the tooth by the top part, not the root.
- Rinse the tooth gently with water if it’s dirty—don’t scrub it.
- Try to place the tooth back into the socket or keep it moist in a container of milk until you reach the dentist.
- Do not keep the tooth in water.
Unexplained Bleeding in the Mouth
While it’s normal to see some bleeding from your gums after brushing or flossing, excessive or unexplained bleeding can be a sign of a dental emergency. Common causes include:
- Advanced gum disease (periodontitis)
- Oral trauma
- Infection or abscess
Contact your dentist immediately If the bleeding is persistent and accompanied by pain or swelling.
Excessive bleeding can also signal other health problems, such as clotting disorders, that need prompt evaluation.
The Importance of Immediate Dental Care
When faced with dental emergencies, seeking immediate treatment is the best thing an individual can do. This not only prevents the problem from worsening but also ensures timely treatment.
For example, an untreated tooth infection can spread to other parts of the body, causing serious health issues. You can avoid long-term damage and preserve your oral health by acting quickly.
Emergency dentists are trained to handle a wide variety of urgent dental cases. They can provide treatments like:
- Pain relief
- Emergency tooth extractions
- Treatment for infections or abscesses
- Temporary fixes for broken or damaged teeth
Quick Steps You Can Take During a Dental Emergency
You can take the following steps during a dental emergency:
- Rinse your mouth with warm, saline water.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- An over-the-counter pain reliever can help manage discomfort.
- Avoid eating hard or chewy foods that can worsen the injury.
Conclusion
Recognizing the top symptoms of dental emergencies can help you take prompt action and seek the care you need. These symptoms should never be ignored or taken lightly, as they may worsen into a full-blown oral health crisis.
If you’re ever in doubt about a dental issue, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult a dental professional.
Spring Creek Dental can provide comprehensive dental services to you and your family. Our professionals will guide you through the process, from consultation to post-op check-ups. Contact us now if you are facing a dental emergency!
To schedule an appointment, visit Spring Creek Dental.
Our address: 422 2nd Street Hudson, WI 54016
Phone: (715) 381-9710