CALL TODAY
Dental emergencies can be frightening, but it is essential to know when to seek immediate assistance. These unexpected oral health crises can cause significant discomfort, pain, and even infection. By knowing the common reasons for dental emergencies and when to seek help, you can ensure timely care.
Here are five common reasons why you might need to see an emergency dentist:
1. Severe Toothache
A severe toothache is a common reason for a dental emergency visit. This intense pain can be caused by a number of factors, including:
Caries (Cavities)
When a cavity becomes deep enough, it can reach the pulp, the soft tissue at the center of the tooth. This contains nerves and blood vessels, and the cavity reaching it can lead to a sharp, throbbing pain.
Fractured or Avulsed Teeth
A fractured tooth can expose the pulp, causing pain and increasing the risk of infection. An avulsed tooth is one that has been completely knocked out of the socket. If not treated promptly, an avulsed tooth may become difficult or impossible to replant.
Abscesses
An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms around an infected tooth, which can cause a lot of pain and swelling. Abscesses can also spread infection to other parts of the body. If you have a severe toothache, it is important to see a dentist right away.
2. Knocked-Out Teeth
Having a tooth knocked out due to impact requires immediate attention. It is a dental emergency by any measure. If a tooth is knocked completely out of the socket, you should try to reinsert it carefully.
If you cannot reinsert the tooth, place it in some milk. You can also keep it in your mouth — your saliva will help protect it. See your dentist right away.
3. Mandibular Fracture
A mandibular fracture, also known as a broken jaw, is a serious dental emergency. This injury can be caused by a traumatic event, such as a fall, a car accident, or a sports injury.
It requires immediate medical attention, and its most common sign is severe pain in the jaw.
Difficulty opening or closing your mouth, face swelling, a misaligned bite, and bleeding from the mouth are also signs.
If you suspect a broken jaw, aim to seek medical help right away to prevent further damage and ensure healing.
4. Loose Teeth
Loose teeth can be caused by a number of things, including periodontal disease, tooth decay, and injury.
If your teeth are loose, see a dentist right away, as loose teeth can be a sign of an underlying problem that needs treatment.
When bacteria builds up in the mouth, it can cause inflammation and infection of the gums and other tissues. Over time, this inflammation can destroy the bone that supports the teeth, causing them to become loose.
Injury can also cause teeth to become loose. A blow to the face or a sports injury can cause teeth to become dislodged from their sockets.
5. Severe Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is common and can lead to serious health problems. If you have severe periodontal disease, you may need to see an emergency dentist.
Signs of severe periodontal disease include red, swollen gingiva (gums) and gums that bleed easily.
Halitosis (bad breath), loose teeth, and recession of the gingival margin (gums pulling away from the teeth) are others.
If you have any of these symptoms, see a dentist immediately, so you can receive care.
What to Expect at a Dental Emergency
When you visit an emergency dentist, they will examine your oral cavity to see the cause of your problem. They may need to take radiographs to get a better look at your teeth and gums.
Once the dentist has diagnosed your problem, they will discuss treatment options with you.
Treatment may include restorative procedures, such as filling cavities or performing root canal therapy. Other procedures include extracting a tooth, placing dental implants, and orthodontic treatment.
The cost of emergency dental care can vary depending on the nature of your problem and the treatment required. However, many dental insurance plans cover emergency dental care.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
The best way to prevent dental emergencies is to practice good oral hygiene. Preventing dental conditions is more effective than dealing with an emergency when it happens.
Prevention includes brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. Ideally, it also means seeing your dentist for regular checkups. Regular checkups help you spot the signs of an emergency before they happen.
Avoiding sugary drinks and foods and quitting smoking also significantly help.
Most Trusted Emergency Dentist in Eugene, OR
Dental emergencies can be frightening, but you need to seek help if you experience any of these symptoms. By seeing an emergency dentist, you can get the treatment you need to relieve your pain.
Dr. Ari Binder at 360 Dental is here if you need a top-notch emergency dentist near you. As the best family dentist in Eugene, OR, he will give you the care you need. For immediate assistance with your dental emergency, please call (541) 689-1645.
We look forward to serving you with unparalleled family dentistry services in Eugene, OR!
Sources:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/knocked-out-tooth/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/25072-broken-jaw
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/loose-tooth
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21482-gum-periodontal-disease
https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-toothache/basics/art-20056628
