We all know that dental health is important, but many of us don’t really pay attention to our teeth until we have a problem. Dental emergencies can happen unexpectedly and can be quite painful and disruptive to our daily lives. It’s important to know what to do in case of a dental emergency, so you can take action quickly and effectively.
Common emergency dental problems include:
- Toothaches: Severe tooth pain or sensitivity can be caused by a variety of issues, including cavities, tooth decay, or an infection.
- Broken or chipped teeth: This can be caused by injury or trauma and may also be accompanied by pain and bleeding.
- Lost fillings or crowns: Fillings or crowns that have fallen out can cause sensitivity and pain, and if not treated promptly, may lead to further damage.
- Knocked-out teeth: This type of injury can occur due to impact or trauma and is considered a dental emergency.
- Abscesses: An abscess is a severe infection in the tooth or gums, and it requires prompt treatment to prevent it from spreading to other areas of the body.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Lacerations, puncture wounds and avulsions (knocked-out) of the lips, tongue, cheeks or floor of the mouth.
- Fractured Jaw: It can be caused by a variety of things, including an accident or injury, and can cause severe pain and difficulty opening the mouth.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: These are molars that don’t have enough room to fully emerge and cause pain, swelling and infection.
It’s important to seek professional help for any of these dental emergencies as soon as possible to minimize damage and prevent further complications.
Next Steps
Once you have established you are having a dental emergency, the first step is to contact your emergency dentist in Havertown, explain your situation, and follow their instructions. Depending on the severity of your issue, you may be asked to come in for an appointment as soon as possible or wait until regular office hours. If you need help after regular office hours, many dentists have emergency lines that you can call for assistance. In some cases, if your condition is severe enough, it may be best to go directly to an emergency room.
Preventative Measures
The best way to avoid a dental emergency is through preventive care– it’s important to take care of your oral health by brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your Havertown dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to wear protective gear like helmets when engaging in activities like biking or skateboarding to minimize damage in case of a fall.
At Bright Choice Dental, we understand that dealing with tooth pain can be stressful and uncomfortable. We offer same-day dentistry to help get you out of pain, quickly and safely. During your appointment, your Bright Choice dentist will evaluate your tooth and determine the appropriate treatment options that work best for you. So, if you’re experiencing tooth pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help.