When Should I See An Emergency Dentist

Are you experiencing tooth pain? Have you suffered from a chipped or lost tooth? While you might be tempted to put off seeing the dentist until a more convenient time, delaying a situation that requires seeing an emergency dentist can result in prolonged suffering and risk of tooth loss.

In this article we’ve outlined a few dental scenarios and whether they’re considered a dental emergency.

What Is Not A Dental Emergency?

While every oral issue should be taken seriously, you don’t always need the services of an emergency dentist. If you’ve lost a filling, for example, you might experience some pain, but don’t usually require emergency care.

While it may not require urgent care, a lost crown or filling can cause pain and increase the chances of tooth decay if food gets stuck. So it’s best to call your dentist as soon as possible and schedule their earliest appointment.

Do you have a toothache? This could indicate a more sinister and serious underlying problem and should not be ignored. But unless your tooth pain is extreme or you have other symptoms like swelling and bleeding, a toothache is generally not considered a dental emergency.

Signs You Need To See An Emergency Dentist

Cracked, Chipped, or Broken Teeth

A chipped or cracked tooth can sometimes be considered an emergency, and other times not.  Are you experiencing pain as a result of a trauma-related injury? If so, then you should call an emergency dentist. However, if you are not experiencing any pain following a chipped or a cracked tooth, then you may be okay to wait a day or two until you’re able to call your regular dentist.

You’ll want to have a chip, crack or break repaired as soon as possible, as the damaged and exposed tooth is more susceptible to a range of serious problems including decay, infection, and discolouration. Leaving a tooth untreated also increases the chance of your tooth splitting and requiring crowns to fix or implants to replace.

Lost Tooth

A lost tooth due to impact or infection is a much more serious injury than just a chip or crack. An open hole left in your mouth drastically increases the chances of infection and reduces the chances that the tooth can be saved and put back in your mouth.

If you’ve lost a tooth, here are some tips to increase the chance of saving it. First, pick up the tooth from the crown (the end you chew with), and gently clean off any dirt or dust. If possible, put the tooth back in the empty socket and hold it or gently bite down to keep it in place.

If the tooth cannot be put back into the socket, either hold the tooth gently in your cheek or place it in milk until you can get to the hospital or dentist.

Bleeding Gums or Infection

A bit of bleeding after you floss is perfectly normal. However, if you are experiencing heavy bleeding or bleeding for no apparent reason, then you should see an emergency dentist right away.

Bleeding gums can be ais a very clear warning sign that there is somethere some degree of gum disease (periodontal disease) presvent, which can quickly result in bone deterioration and eventually loss of teeth. Lost teeth thenthan need further dental treatments to replace them either with an implant, dental bridge, or dentures.

Tooth abscesses (infections) are serious emergency dental situations, and usually the result of leaving a cavity or gum disease untreated. If you are experiencing pus, swelling, or have a persistent bad taste in your mouth, it may be a tooth abscess and you should seek treatment right away.

Severe Tooth Pain

Mild tooth pain isn’t necessarily a cause for alarm, and can often be treated with painkillers until a dentist appointment is made. But severe or consistent tooth pain is an indication of a more serious problem. Tooth pain can be caused by multiple factors from tooth decay, to wisdom teeth, gum disease, and tooth abscesses. Only a qualified dentist can assess and determine the cause of your pain and recommend treatment options.

Do You Have A Dental Emergency?

If you’re experiencing any emergency dental symptoms, you don’t have to suffer any longer. While routine check-ups can help keep problems to a minimum, emergencies do happen. Acting right away and seeking immediate treatment will give you the best chance to prevent permanent damage, save your tooth, and prevent more expensive treatments.

At King Street Dental, we have a medical centreer on-site and a pharmacy coming soon. We use the latest and leading technology to assist with dental emergencies. Whatever your emergency is, our friendly dental professionals at King Street Dental will assist you every step of the way.