What is a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is any issue with your teeth, mouth, or gums that needs immediate dental care. Particular examples of this include:
Broken, Chipped, or Knocked Out Tooth
A broken or chipped tooth can usually be repaired, but will require urgent dental care. The dentist may be able to repair the fracture or chip with a filling, whereas more serious breaks may need a crown or root canal.
A dentist may be able to replace a knocked-out tooth within an hour of the incident if it is in good enough condition. Within this time frame, the tooth's chances of regaining rooting are higher. After two hours, the likelihood dramatically decreases, necessitating the consideration of alternative measures.
Severe Toothache
Apply ice to the area first and call your dentist right away if you have a toothache that won't go away with over-the-counter pain relievers because this is a dental emergency.
Toothaches can indicate potential major dental issues, and so it is important to take them seriously.
Lost Filling
A missing filling is also dangerous because it exposes the interior of your tooth and weakens its structure. It is critical to see a dentist as soon as possible to have the filling replaced. You can protect the area until you can see the dentist by temporarily replacing the filling with a softened piece of sugarless gum.
Object Lodged Between Teeth
When something gets stuck between your teeth, it can be dangerous and needs immediate attention from your dentist. Avoid using a sharp object to try to remove the object yourself if you are unable to do so with floss because doing so could push it deeper between your teeth or harm your gums.
Bitten Tongue or Lip
You should go to an emergency dental clinic if you have bleeding that won't stop after biting your tongue or lip. Apply a fresh cloth to the area of the mouth that is bleeding while you wait and press down. To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack, and seek emergency dental care.
Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a collection of pus that forms inside the teeth or gums. This excruciatingly painful condition is usually caused by a bacterial infection, which occurs within the tooth's soft pulp or root. They can be caused by an untreated cavity, severe gum disease, or a chipped tooth.
Symptoms can include anything from a bad taste in your mouth to swollen glands, pain, pus or a fever. An abscessed tooth will usually need surgery to drain the infection and treat it properly. Treatment for dental abscesses can involve root canal surgery.