Whenever you are dealing with a dental problem, make sure to give your dentist a call. That is the only truth that matters in case of any issue with your dentures. Keep in mind that dental problems don’t come announced – so it can be during the regular office hours, during your night-time rest, or during a holiday. In the following section, we will look at some of the issues you need to be aware of concerning dental emergencies.
- Knowing what is a dental emergency
- What isn’t a dental emergency?
- The common emergencies
- Avoiding potential emergencies
The first thing you need to know is the difference between a standard dental issue and a real emergency. Keep in mind that a real crisis will cost you more than just a tooth. Here are some of the common dental emergencies that you should be aware of.
Dental emergency – teeth bleeding
Dental emergencies are widespread, and you will hard-pressed to find people in and around you who have never experienced dental issues. However, not every dental problem is an emergency, but that doesn’t mean you can treat them at home. How to determine whether you need to check into the ER or at the nearby urgent dental care? Read on to know more.
Determine your situation after answering the following questions.
Are you in severe pain?
If yes, then you need to check into the emergency. Keep in mind that pain and bleeding are the two most common signs of an emergency.
Have you lost a tooth?
In case of an accident or a sporting injury, fast treatment can save your tooth.
In case of loose teeth
If you are suffering from loose teeth, you need to check with the dental care emergency service. Keep in mind it can indicate other underlying issues – so make the appointment without fail.
Are you suffering from an infection?
In case you are suffering from infection or abscess, then you should visit a specialist without fail.
Are you suffering from bleeding gums and mouth?
In general, any bleeding problem requires specialist treatment. This is the case with bleeding mouth and gums as well. Blood loss can lead to infection or serious complications. In case of your kids are suffering from bleeding gums, make sure to contact Rochester pediatric dentistry.
What isn’t considered an emergency?
Some problems can wait a couple of days even though it isn’t altogether advisable. However, the matter is that there are specific issues that can get better over time, and the cost of a dental specialist appointment can be steep. A chipped or cracked tooth can be painful due to the trauma in your mouth. However, if it doesn’t hurt, you can wait to make the appointment.
A toothache can also wait for treatment as long as the pain isn’t severe and within your tolerance level. However, in case of fever associated with tooth pain, then always call your dental specialist. Other common dental issues that aren’t considered emergencies are losing a filling and false teeth. All such over-the-counter fixtures can wait a couple of days.
Other common dental emergencies
There are several other common dental emergencies, and here is a complete list that will allow you to make a better decision.
Knocked-out tooth
According to the American Dental Association, you need prompt action if your tooth has been knocked out. Keep in mind that quick action will allow the dentist to reinsert, attach and preserve your tooth. All you need to do is pick up the tooth carefully by the crown or the top section. Avoid touching the root and carefully rinse the tooth to clean it from dirt and debris. Place your tooth in milk or water to transport it under proper care to your dental surgeon.
In case of a cracked or chipped tooth
In case of a severe fracture, you need to start the first-aid at home. Clean your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce the pain and swelling. You can take prescription painkillers to get rid of the pain, or a numbing gel can do the trick if you want to avoid the side-effects.
Infections
A dental abscess or an infection is a potentially life-threatening situation. Keep in mind cavities fill up with food, and often the resulting pus formation leads to infection. A tooth infection can lead to extreme tooth sensitivity to food and temperature, bleeding, sharp stabbing pain sensation, and fever. However, that is not the end of the story, as dental infection leads to severe complications within days, including swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, headaches, and stomach issues.
Additionally, the condition can spread to other areas of the body. Before visiting your dentist, make sure you clean your mouth with salt water multiple times. This will draw out the pus from the surface, clean, disinfect, and reduce the pain.
To conclude, yes, there are dental problems that you can take care of at your home. But, it is always a great idea to visit a dentist to get the most comprehensive care.