What Is Considered A Dental Emergency? Knowing When To Seek Help

Dentist Blog

Dental emergencies can be a painful and stressful experience. It’s important for everyone to know the difference between a minor dental issue and a true dental emergency. Understanding what constitutes a dental emergency can help you take the appropriate steps to alleviate pain and get the treatment you need as quickly as possible. In this blog post, we will discuss what constitutes a dental emergency, what to do in a dental emergency, and the importance of seeking professional dental care.

What Is a Dental Emergency 

A dental emergency is any problem that is severe enough to warrant immediate attention. Some of the most common dental emergencies include:

• A knocked-out tooth: A knocked-out tooth is considered a dental emergency. If you act quickly and take the right steps, you may be able to save your tooth.
• Severe pain: Sudden or severe pain in your teeth or gums requires immediate attention. Ignoring the pain can lead to the development of serious dental problems, like abscesses, which can be life-threatening.
• A broken or cracked tooth: A broken or cracked tooth is a dental emergency that requires prompt attention. If left untreated, it can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss.

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important to seek professional dental care immediately.

What to Do in a Dental Emergency 

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, the first thing you need to do is seek professional dental care. Call your dentist, and they will likely schedule an appointment for you as soon as possible. While waiting for your appointment, here are some steps you can take to ease your pain:

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Use an over-the-counter pain reliever to alleviate pain.
• If you’ve lost a tooth, try to place it back in its socket or hold it in your mouth until you see a dentist.

The Importance of Seeking Professional Dental Care 

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, it’s important to seek professional dental care immediately. Ignoring a dental emergency can not only lead to further damage but can also put you at risk of developing more serious health problems. For example, severe tooth decay can lead to infections that can spread to other parts of your body, including your heart. Gum disease has also been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. By seeking prompt, professional dental care, you can prevent these kinds of serious health issues and keep your mouth healthy.

Contact an emergency dentist for more information. 

3 January 2024