A dental emergency can be an overwhelming and painful experience. It can leave an individual confused and distressed, not knowing what to do or who to turn to for help. To prevent a dental emergency from worsening, it is essential to recognise the signs and symptoms of a dental emergency and know when to call a dentist.
This article provides an overview of how to tell if you are experiencing a dental emergency and what to do. As the old saying goes, An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. By arming yourself with the knowledge of when and how to identify a dental emergency, you can save yourself and others from immense pain and suffering.
Signs of a Dental Emergency
A dental emergency is typically characterised by signs and symptoms requiring immediate attention. These signs can include severe tooth pain, swelling near the affected area, a tooth that is loose or lost, a toothache that does not respond to over-the-counter medications, an abscess on the gums, or a permanent tooth that has been knocked out.
Dental emergencies can also include tooth decay, tooth infection, and a need for a tooth extraction. Prolonged tooth pain, gum inflammation, and sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures may be present in these cases.
If any of these signs or symptoms are present, seeking help from an emergency dental professional as soon as possible is essential. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to more severe and permanent damage, including the need for extensive repairs or even tooth loss.
Symptoms of a Dental Emergency
Painful sensations in the mouth, especially when accompanied by swelling, often indicate a dental emergency.
For those experiencing a dental emergency, emergency appointments with an emergency dentist should be made as soon as possible to obtain dental emergency treatment.
Common symptoms of a dental emergency include a severe toothache, gum tissue swelling, an exposed root surface, and pain relief medication that does not alleviate the pain.
Sometimes, root canal treatment may be necessary to prevent further damage.
Additionally, a tooth abscess can cause a severe infection if left untreated.
Uncontrollable bleeding is also a sign of a dental emergency and needs to be examined and treated by a professional dentist as soon as possible.
Contacting an emergency dentist if these symptoms appear to prevent further damage to the teeth and mouth is essential.
When to Call a Dentist
If left untreated, dental emergencies can cause severe infection and damage to the teeth and mouth, making it essential to contact a dentist as soon as possible.
Dental care must be sought immediately if a tooth has been severely chipped, cracked, or knocked out or severe pain in the jaw or mouth.
Calling them directly is the best option if it is during the business hours of a dental clinic. Leaving a message on the answering machine or finding after-hours emergency contact numbers is essential if it is after hours.
If a baby tooth has been knocked out, it does not need to be put back in place, but an adult tooth should be kept in a cup of warm water or, even better, in milk.
Contacting a dental clinic immediately ensures proper dental treatment and care.
What to Do in the Meantime
While seeking dental care, it is essential to reduce pain and discomfort. Several things can be done to alleviate dental pain and discomfort, depending on the type of emergency:
For Abscessed Tooth:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen
- Use dental floss to remove any food particles
For Broken Tooth:
- Place a cold compress on the outside of the mouth
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen
For Cracked, Crooked, or Damaged or Knocked-Out Teeth
- Place a cold compress on the outside of the mouth
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen
- If it is a knocked-out tooth, place the tooth in a cup of milk and bring it to the dentist
In addition to the earlier remedies, other steps can be taken to relieve dental pain. These steps include avoiding hot and cold foods, avoiding sticky or hard foods that may cause further damage to the tooth, and avoiding touching or prodding the tooth socket or the damaged tooth.
These steps will help alleviate pain and discomfort until a dentist can see the patient.
Key Takeaways
Dental emergencies are no laughing matter. It is a severe issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring a dental emergency’s warning signs and symptoms could result in permanent damage and long-term health complications.
It is best to seek professional help from a dentist as soon as possible. Time is of the utmost importance when it comes to a dental emergency. Early detection and treatment can make all the difference in the world.
Therefore, be sure to be on the lookout for any signs of a dental emergency and take the necessary steps to ensure a speedy and successful recovery.
If you are experiencing a dental emergency or need to consult a professional, consider visiting North Ryde Dental in Macquarie Park, NSW. Our team of experienced dentists in North Ryde are well-equipped to handle any dental emergency and can provide you with the necessary advice and treatment you need. Don’t hesitate to get the help you need as soon as possible to prevent further damage and complications.