A dental emergency is any dental problem that requires immediate treatment. Wait, all dental problems are not emergencies. You need a dental emergency in cases such as bleeding from the mouth that won’t stop, pain that doesn’t get better with medication, or broken facial bones.
What to do in a dental emergency
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, the first thing you should do is run towards an emergency dentist in Basingstoke. Many dentists have an emergency number you can call, even if it’s after regular business hours.
Dental emergencies occur unexpectedly, which can cause acute pain and discomfort for you. Knowing when to seek the assistance of an emergency dentist is crucial for addressing dental issues promptly and effectively. In this article, we'll discuss some of the most common dental emergencies and provide insights into when to visit an emergency dentist for immediate care.
Understanding Dental Emergencies:
Dental emergencies include some conditions that require urgent attention from a qualified dentist.
Different types of dental emergencies include:
Knocked-Out Tooth: Also known as an avulsed tooth. Accidents or injuries to the mouth can result in a knocked-out tooth. Swift action is crucial in such cases to increase the chances of saving the tooth. First of all, locate the tooth and handle it carefully by the crown. You should not touch the root of a tooth. Rinse the tooth gently without removing any tissue, and try to reinsert it into the socket if possible. If not, place the tooth in milk or a tooth preservation kit and seek emergency dental care immediately to restore the tooth.
Broken or Fractured Tooth: A broken or fractured tooth can cause pain and discomfort, especially if the nerve is exposed. It can also affect the ability to chew and speak comfortably. A broken tooth can be the result of trauma, decay, or the biting of something hard in nature, and it needs prompt attention. Rinse the mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. There are plenty of treatment options for broken teeth, such as dental bonding, crowning, or root canal treatment. Contact an emergency dentist for a proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Severe Toothache: A severe toothache can be uncomfortable and distressing. It is also a signal of underlying dental complications that require attention, such as dental decay, infection, or abscess. If over-the-counter pain relievers don't alleviate the pain, it's important to seek professional dental care. Moreover, it should not be ignored as it can lead to further complications; thereby, visiting a dentist promptly is necessary to manage pain.
Lost Filling or Crown: If a filling or crown becomes dislodged, it can expose the underlying tooth structure and cause sensitivity or pain. This normally happens due to wear and tear, decay, or trauma to the tooth. Avoid chewing on the affected tooth for further damage, and keep the affected area clean by gently rinsing with warm water. Schedule an emergency dental appointment to have the restoration replaced or repaired to restore the strength and function of the tooth.
Abscess or Infection: Dental abscesses are pus-filled infections that can develop around the tooth root or gums, causing severe pain, swelling, redness, and fever. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent the infection from spreading and causing further complications. The dentist will probably drain the pus to relieve pain and may prescribe some antibiotics to combat the bacterial infection.
When to Visit an Emergency Dentist:
While some dental issues can wait until regular office hours, some dental complications require immediate attention from an emergency dentist. Consider seeking emergency dental care if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent and severe tooth pain or swelling that doesn't respond to over-the-counter medications.
- Trauma or accident resulting in a knocked-out tooth or significant damage to the teeth or mouth.
- Uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth or gums.
- Signs of infection such as swelling, pus discharge, or fever.
- Dental issues that interfere with eating, speaking, or daily activities.
It's important to note that delaying treatment for dental emergencies can worsen the condition and lead to more extensive dental procedures in the future. Ignoring dental pain or discomfort can also have long-term consequences for oral health.
Tips for Managing Dental Emergencies:
While awaiting emergency dental care, there are several steps you can take to alleviate discomfort and minimize further damage:
- Rinse the mouth with warm saltwater to reduce swelling and cleanse the affected area.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed to manage discomfort.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth or cheek to reduce swelling and numb the area.
- Avoid chewing on the affected side of the mouth and consuming hard or sticky foods that could aggravate the condition.
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