Your dentist should be your first point of contact whenever you encounter a dental problem. But what if you have a dental issue after opening hours, on the weekends, or during the holidays? It’s important to know the difference between dental problems that require emergency attention and those that can wait until the next day.
Here are four oral injuries that need immediate medical attention. You should contact your emergency dentist right away if you’re experiencing any of the following.
Knocked-out Tooth
Time is of the essence if you have a knocked-out tooth. The sooner the tooth is re-implanted, the more likely it will embed back into the gums. You should see your dentist as soon as possible to have the best chances of saving your tooth.
Consider the following if you’ve experienced a knocked-out tooth:
- Pick up the tooth by the crown and avoid touching the root
- Rinse the tooth clean with water and try to re-insert the tooth in the socket (for adult teeth only)
- Bite gently on a handkerchief to keep the tooth in place
- Visit your emergency dentist
If you’re not able to put the tooth back in position, place it in a glass of milk and see your dentist immediately. If your child has a knocked-out tooth, do not try and re-insert it as you may damage the adult tooth growing underneath. Take your child to an emergency dentist as fast as possible.
Chipped or Cracked Tooth
A chipped or cracked tooth is commonly caused by biting into a hard food item or an accident. Whether you require immediate attention depends on the size and location of the crack/chip. Chipped teeth are usually not considered an emergency unless they are causing pain and can wait until the next day. Just make sure to be extra careful when chewing to prevent more chipping. A cracked tooth is usually a serious issue as it suggests damage on the outside and inside of your tooth. Call your dentist immediately if you are experiencing pain from a severe fracture. While waiting for your appointment, you should:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water
- Reduce swelling in your cheek with a cold compress
Missing Filling or Crown
Crowns and fillings can fall out due to many reasons. Though it feels more like an inconvenience, it’s important to contact your dentist as fast as possible to prevent damage from built-up trapped food debris.
Dental Abscess
An abscessed tooth is a serious, potentially life-threatening condition. When a pocket of pus inside a tooth causes an infection, a dental abscess occurs. It can cause tooth sensitivity, high fever, and a consistent toothache. Contact your dentist immediately if you have a dental abscess, as the infection can spread into the jaw and surrounding tissues.
Do you have an unexpected dental problem or accident? Our emergency dentists at Strathroy Family Dental can help. Severe dental emergencies should not be ignored. Contact Strathroy Family Dental to address any of your immediate dental concerns today.
