Accidents can occur at any place and time, to anyone. And sometimes, those accidents can lead to dental emergencies. In case of a dental accident, knowing what to do at the right moment can be the difference between saving or losing a tooth. Some dental concerns may need immediate dental care, while some can wait. Analyzing your symptoms and the severity of the problems can help you choose which option is right for you.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is an injury that happens to your teeth, tongue, gums, or mouth that can be potentially severe and may cause serious issues or even permanent damage when left untreated on time.
To determine whether you have encountered a dental emergency, ask yourself the following questions:
- Are you in severe pain? Severe dental pain or bleeding can indicate a dental emergency.
- Have you lost a tooth? In case you have a lost tooth, immediate treatment can save it.
- Do you have loose teeth? If you are an adult with a loose tooth, it can indicate a problem.
- Do you have an infection? An abscess, swelling, or infection in the mouth can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
In short, any dental issue that needs immediate medical care and treatment to relieve severe pain, stop bleeding, or save a tooth is regarded as an emergency.
Common Dental Emergency Symptoms and Quick Treatments
- Chipped or Broken Tooth: If you have a chipped, cracked, or broken tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and keep a piece of gauze in the area. Apply a cold compress on your face near the chipped or broken tooth to prevent swelling and pain.
- Loss of Permanent Tooth: If an injury or trauma during an accident causes loss of a tooth, try to find it and take it to an experienced dentist as soon as possible to get it reimplanted.
- Severe Toothache: A toothache can indicate an underlying dental issue that needs urgent medical attention.
- Dental Abscess: A dental abscess or infection can result in oozing pus between the teeth. It can either indicate a severe issue or may become a severe concern and spread to the surrounding area when left untreated for long. Visit your dentist immediately in case of a dental abscess.
In the event of any dental emergencies, contact and visit your dentist at the earliest after following the recommendations above.
Call Pacific Highway Dental in Kent at (253) 529-9434 to consult our dentist in the event of a dental emergency and save your teeth.