It is essential to recognise the signs of a dental emergency and act quickly since delaying treatment can result in severe damage, such as decaying teeth, dental abscesses and even tooth loss. Unexpected dental issues can range from a cracked tooth to the complete loss of one, but it’s paramount that you know how to manage them if they ever arise. Acting swiftly for any dental emergency will guarantee your oral health is taken care of properly.
How do you know if you’re dealing with a dental emergency?
If you have an issue with your teeth or gums that requires immediate dental treatment, waste no time and make an appointment at an emergency dental clinic. Here are some of the most common types of such situations:
Damaged restorations
If you encounter any difficulties with your dental restoration, it is of the utmost urgency to seek emergency dental treatment right away.
Neglecting prompt treatment will only lead to more damage and can even cause infection; for example, if you break a crown, then going to the dentist quickly guarantees that its structure remains intact while also preventing other issues in the future.
Exposed nerves
If you’re experiencing pain from an exposed tooth nerve, the first step is to visit your emergency dentist – the discomfort won’t vanish on its own. Unaddressed exposure can result in complications; gum disease could develop into periodontitis, potentially leading to jawbone wastage. Furthermore, if poor brushing continues, more nerves may be uncovered, and sensitivity might escalate. Exposed nerves can cause severe dental pain.
Knocked-out tooth
Acting quickly is the key to saving a knocked-out tooth; therefore, you should seek emergency treatment immediately. When handling the tooth, remember to only grip its top and never touch its root! To best preserve it until an emergency dentist appointment can be made, store it in either milk or saltwater inside a container. Don’t clean it, though –just place it back into its socket gently with damp cloths keeping your mouth closed for maximum preservation potential.
Fractured or broken teeth
It can be excruciatingly painful and unsafe when you have a broken or fractured tooth. You should visit an emergency dentist as soon as possible to assess the severity of your injury. Depending on its level, they could repair it utilising dental bonding or fillings; if more serious, though, it might demand a bridge, crown, or even root canal treatment. Don’t let your teeth fracture linger—seek professional help right away for relief!
Severe swelling
If your immune system misfires and causes severe swelling in your face, jaw or neck region, it’s important to seek immediate dental care. To help curb the inflammation until you make contact with an emergency dentist, apply a cold compress over the affected area and avoid biting down on that side of your mouth. Don’t hesitate – time is essential for treating this type of injury or infection!
Unexplainable toothache
Don’t underestimate the pain of a toothache; it’s your body’s way of warning you that something is wrong. It can be difficult to discern whether or not the agony warrants an emergency dentist visit, but if you are in sudden and severe pain, then seeking professional help should be a top priority. Meanwhile, here are three things you could do to alleviate discomfort until help arrives: utilise a cold compress for temporary numbing relief; rinse with a saltwater solution for cleansing purposes; take over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen for further symptom alleviation.
Persistent bleeding
Bleeding that persists can be a sign of several different issues, from facial trauma to dental decay. Therefore, it is vital to get appropriate medical care when you experience this symptom. Treatment may involve anything from medication or surgery to crowns or root canals, depending on the underlying cause.
Abscessed tooth
An abscessed tooth is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Pus builds up in the affected area, resulting in high fever, swollen lymph nodes near your neck, facial swelling and a protruding bump next to the infected tooth.
An abscessed tooth is an urgent dental situation that should not be neglected. If left ignored, the infection could invade and proliferate to other parts of your body and even your face. Before you head to your emergency appointment, stay away from consuming hot food or drink; use a soft-bristled brush when brushing your teeth; additionally, abstain from flossing around the infected area. You can also try swilling warm salty water in your mouth prior to attending your appointment, as it helps draw the pus towards the surface of the skin for better examination by dentists.
An abscess can be extremely painful, and you should avoid painkillers such as numbing gel prior to your emergency appointment.
What will the dentist do to address a dental emergency?
Root canal treatment
If your tooth is severely decayed or infected, root canal therapy may be the optimal solution for you. During this treatment, your dentist will open up the crown of the tooth and delicately remove any damaged tissue from its pulp chamber so that you can hold onto a healthy and strong natural smile!
Dental crowns
If you’re in need of a crown for your tooth, look no further. A custom-fitted cap designed to match the colour of your existing teeth is created after your dentist removes a small portion from the enamel layer and takes an impression. You’ll have a temporary crown placed until the permanent one arrives – keeping it healthy during this time!
Dental bonding
Dental bonding is an effective and aesthetically-pleasing solution for fixing cracks, chips, or other imperfections in your teeth. Utilising a resilient resin that can be custom tailored to match the contours of your natural teeth perfectly, this treatment offers long-lasting results with minimal effort.
Dental fillings
Cavities can be quickly and effectively remedied with dental fillings. After removing any decayed tissue, dentists use layers of composite resin to rebuild the affected tooth area, then harden them by exposure to a curing light. With this process, you’ll soon enjoy restored teeth that look just like new!
When you’re in need of urgent dental care, trust Southport Park Family Dental to take exceptional care of your smile!
When it comes to dental emergencies, the team at Southport Park Family Dental is here to ease your stress with prompt and dedicated care. We strive to make our patients feel secure in their treatments by providing a comfortable atmosphere where they are sure that they’re receiving top-of-the-line service. Don’t delay any longer – book an appointment or call us on (07) 5655 7688 today for quality emergency dental treatment!
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
