A Dental Emergency, When Is It Really an Emergency?

Sometimes things happen that we don’t always plan for. This can be scary, especially if we don’t know what to do or if there is no help to deal with such emergencies.

A dental emergency is always scary because sometimes we can wake up to excruciating toothache. And we all know there are three things that are unbearable, toothache, earache, and a migraine. 

Certain dental issues some people wait out days or even years, which is never a good idea. So, what counts as a dental emergency, and how should you deal with it?

Here is a list of dental emergencies that should be dealt with as soon as possible:

1.   A cracked tooth

Accidents happen, and sometimes they can even happen in silly ways like cracking a tooth by eating a pretzel. Cracking a tooth is a lot more prevalent than you may think. Knocking your tooth on something hard enough can cause it to crack. Even though you could wait to have it fixed, it does count as a dental emergency. And the sooner you have it fixed, the better. 

2.   A chipped tooth

A little less serious than a cracked tooth but it still counts as an emergency. Sometimes a small chip can wreak havoc on one’s self-image.

3.   A Root Canal

Serious pain can sometimes point to a serious infection that needs to be treated as soon as possible. If not treated as soon as possible, the infection can spread and do damage that sometimes cannot be reversed. 

Swollen gums and pain when eating that lingers are all signs of a possible infection, so don’t take your time in making an emergency dental appointment even if it doesn’t end up being something so serious. Better safe than sorry.

4.   Tooth Extraction

Sometimes a tooth can become and infected and there is just no way to save it. This can be due to decay or extreme damage. If you have a tooth that is giving you issues, then the best option might be just to have it extracted before it causes any more damage in the long run. Your dentist will know upon examination. 

5.   Sudden swelling

You know what feels normal and what does not. When there is a sudden swelling in your mouth, it is time to visit your dentist, especially if it is something that you have not experienced before. The sooner you have it looked at, the better.

6.   Knocked-out teeth

Having a tooth or teeth knocked is a painful and a traumatic experience. It can happen when playing sport or falling or even if someone gets into a fight. No matter the reason the most important thing after is to find the tooth or teeth if you can and head straight to the dentist. 

Even with all these emergencies mentioned, if you feel like something is not right, then phone your dentist and make an appointment. Waiting may only aggravate whatever is going on, and it might end up costing even more in the long run.

And there is no need to be afraid of the dentist anymore. Their technology makes it possible to enjoy an almost pain-free dental visit.