Dental emergencies are overwhelming. Knowing when to seek immediate care can save your tooth and fend off serious dental complications. Don’t hesitate to call your dentist if you face these situations or symptoms–urgent dental situations are best to be treated as soon as possible.
Severe Tooth Pain
Intense tooth pain screams infection—think abscessed tooth, advanced decay. Antibiotics might be necessary or even a root canal to yank the infection and save that tooth. Ignoring an infection can cause it to spread more–causing extensive damage. With swift action, you will be able to resolve the problem and minimize damage.
Accidents and Injuries
Blow to the face or mouth—fall, accident, sports injury? Broken teeth, dislodged teeth, and a fractured jaw can all raise serious concern. Quickly getting treatment will allow for an easier recovery from pain and long-term issues. If your tooth is knocked out, gently place it in milk, and see a dentist within an hour to have the best shot at saving it.
Knocked-Out Tooth
Permanent teeth getting knocked out is a dental emergency. You need to act fast—sometimes the tooth is savable given the right conditions. Handle the tooth by the crown and not root. Rinse the tooth gently, and try slipping it back in the socket. If that isn’t possible, allow the tooth to sit in a milk or saline solution to keep it moist and get to the dentist immediately. The sooner you get dental care, the better chance the tooth has at reattachment.
Uncontrolled Bleeding
If you have bleeding that won’t quit—from injury, gum disease, whatever—you should seek urgent dental care. Continuous flow hints at deeper trouble: periodontal disease, or even trauma. Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze—until you can get care.
Signs of Infection (Pus or Swelling)
Pus near a tooth or gums is a big red flag—periodontal or periapical abscess is likely in this situation. If left untreated, the infection can spread, risking your whole body. Swelling, fever, and bad taste in your mouth are also symptoms to look out for and drainage, antibiotics are vital at this point and can not wait.
When a Root Canal Is an Emergency
Root canals can be urgent when there is severe pain, and potentially a raging infection in the roots of the tooth. A root canal procedure will pull the infected tissue from the tooth—making the pain ease, and damage stop. If you have any prolonged sensitivity, continuous swelling, or lingering discomfort, it’s time to contact the dentist–this is important to ensure the root canal was performed properly and successfully.
Act Fast to Protect Your Dental Health
Being aware of these emergency dental situations can help you take action quickly and protect your smile. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, don’t wait—call an emergency dentist now. At Scarsdale Dental Spa, we’re ready to help you through any dental crisis with prompt and professional care. We also provide 24-hour emergency dental services to ensure you get the care you need, whenever you need it.