When a dental situation arises suddenly, it can sometimes be difficult to determine if a visit to an emergency dentist is necessary or if the issue can wait until your next dental appointment. Learning the signs of a dental emergency can prevent the damage or illness that can result from delaying treatment.
Although a number of dental issues can cause pain or imperfections in tooth appearance, not all of them necessitate a visit to an emergency dentist. Knowing which problems are considered dental emergencies can save money as well as a visit to an unfamiliar dentist.
When a tooth is knocked out of position and is loose but still attached at the root, it is possible to save the tooth from falling out completely. In this case, moving the tooth back into position without disturbing the root is the best course of action. An immediate dental visit for analysis and treatment can help stabilize the tooth, prevent infection of the surrounding gums and reduce the chance the tooth will be lost.
Sometimes an accident or injury can cause a tooth to be knocked out of the mouth completely. Many people think that a knocked-out tooth is a lost cause, but this is not always the result. In the case of a knocked-out tooth, time is of the essence. The tooth should be kept moist so the root does not dry out. The tooth should never be handled by the root side, only by the crown. Ideally, placing the tooth in the mouth in the place it was lost can help save the root on the way to the emergency dental visit.
Cracked or chipped teeth can typically be repaired during a regularly scheduled dental appointment, but some cracks call for an emergency repair. If the crack extends down into the root, or a large piece of the tooth breaks off, the tooth's root might become damaged and quick assessment is recommended.
Some visits to emergency dentists are not entirely related to the teeth. If soft tissues in the mouth, such as the gums, are injured, a visit to the dentist to assess potential tooth and root damage is necessary. Unlike a loose or cracked tooth, wounds to soft mouth tissue typically necessitate a visit to an emergency room or another physician before the dental visit to make sure other potentially more pertinent issues are addressed first.
Any time a tooth is damaged in an accident, a visit to the dentist is the next step. In some cases, this can wait until a regular visit during normal business hours. In other cases, an immediate trip to an emergency dentist can help prevent further damage and lead to better tooth outcomes. Many dentists reserve several appointments every day that can be utilized for emergency cases.
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