When Do You Need to See an Emergency Dentist?
Physical Injuries and Trauma
Severe Pain and Infection
Other Times to Seek Care:
-
Unbearable toothache
- Presence of dental abscess
- Loose or knocked-out tooth
- Broken or shattered tooth
- Cracked or chipped tooth
- Mouth sores and gum bleeding
What Are the Risks If You Postpone Emergency Treatment?
How Do You Get an Emergency Dentist Appointment? 7 Urgent Steps to Take
1. Hold Your Knocked-Out Tooth in Place
2. Take Over-the-Counter Painkillers for a Severe Toothache
If you’re experiencing unbearable oral pain that’s keeping you from talking, eating, or opening your mouth, then you need to seek emergency care. Toothache is a sure sign that something isn’t right with your mouth or body, whether or not the said tooth looks healthy or clean.
3. Apply a Cold Compress to the Affected Area
4. Brush and Floss Infected Areas
5. Rinse Your Mouth With Salt Water or Mouthwash
6. Control Bleeding in Your Oral Cavity
7. Reduce Swelling in the Mouth
What to Expect During Your Emergency Dental Appointment
Physical Exam and Medical History Review
Most patients are asked about the following:
- When and how did the pain start?
- Where is the pain located?
- How severe is your pain?
- Were home remedies effective?
Assessment and Diagnosis
After a thorough examination, your dentist will determine what treatments can be performed to save your tooth and relieve you from pain. Sometimes, a root canal is needed to save your aching tooth. If an infection has been detected, your dentist will provide treatments to lessen the swelling and reduce its spread.
Cleaning and Treatment
If decay is present, your dentist will remove and fill the affected areas. However, if the decay has already gone “too deep” and removing the decay is no longer possible, a root canal treatment will be the next best option. You will be required to return for follow-up treatment since a root canal can take a few sessions to complete.
Dental Restoration
Damaged teeth caused by injury can be saved through dental restoration. If you’re suffering from a cracked or chipped tooth, this treatment can be recommended to you. A dentist will use a bonding agent to attach synthetic material to your damaged tooth. Later on, he or she will shape it before light curing (or hardening) the material.
The good news is that this treatment takes one sitting only. Other dental restoration solutions may also be offered to you, such as dental crowns and veneers. This will help restore your dental health and make sure that your recent injury is not affecting the quality of your daily life.
Re-Attachment or Implants
If your tooth has been knocked out because of an accident, your dentist can still reattach it. That’s why it’s important to follow the urgent step we mentioned regarding keeping your tooth clean and preserved.
If a re-attachment is no longer a viable option, your dentist can suggest dentures, implants, or a dental bridge. These might require a follow-up checkup which can be scheduled at your most convenient time.
Medical Prescription
The last step in your emergency dental appointment may include going home with a medical prescription. Other times, you may be prescribed with painkillers and antibiotics and advised to come back for a follow-up treatment.