Dental emergencies are more common than you may realize and can happen at unexpected times and places. From playing sports to eating hard candy, anyone can need to see an emergency dentist at some point! In the section below, we look at some of the most frequent dental emergencies, so you know what to do to minimize further damage by bringing the person to an emergency dentist.
Bleeding Gums or Teeth
If you notice blood in your saliva, it could signify gum disease or gingivitis. Though there’s no immediate cause for panic, you still want to go to your emergency dentist to have it checked out immediately. Blood in your saliva may indicate advanced cancer or gum disease stages.
Busted Jaw
You may not think it, but a dislocated jaw from yawning too hard or eating a huge sandwich is more common than you might think. And the jaw is one of the most frequently broken bones in the human body. Traffic accidents (particularly involving motorbikes, bicycles, and scooters), sports injuries, and falls are the most common causes.
A broken jaw is best dealt with at the hospital, but it can also lead to your teeth becoming misaligned (a condition known as malocclusion). Your emergency dentist can help diagnose any potential long-term damage to your teeth that might result from a broken jaw. Gently apply a cold compress to the area and consult with a doctor first, however.
Knocked Out, Loose, or Broken Tooth
There are a million reasons you might suffer a broken or dislodged tooth. Maybe you fell down the stairs, walked into a glass door, or crashed your bike. The good news is that if you act quickly, a dislodged tooth can be reattached with a straightforward procedure. Try to reach your emergency dentist within 30 minutes of losing the tooth. Handle the dislodged tooth only by the crown.
Mouth Full of Sores
Mouth sores can come from braces rubbing against your mouth, wounds that don’t heal properly, or even canker sores! Even though it might seem like you can take care of the situation with a gel, it’s still better to talk to your dentist.
Mouth sores can also be an early sign of gum disease. Gum disease is often easier to treat when it’s found early. This way, you can take steps to protect your oral health and keep mouth sores from getting worse.
Tooth Infection
An infected tooth is a dental emergency. Whether it be from cavities or food debris that hasn’t been brushed, flossed, or removed, a tooth infection may lead to an abscess—a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection. When left untreated, your condition may cause more severe health problems, invading the gums and potentially damaging nerve endings in your jaw. This could be the case if you have a fever or are feeling intense pain.
If you have a persistent and throbbing toothache, consult your local dentist. In the meantime, you can take over-the-counter medications like Tylenol to alleviate some pain.
Suffering from Any of These? Go to Dental First (Studio Sight) Immediately
Dental First (Studio Sight) is a group of emergency dentists who stand for quality, comfort, and comprehensive care in dire situations. Your treatment with us is guaranteed whenever you’re in a dental emergency. Check out our office hours so you can book your next appointment!
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