When Should You Visit an Emergency Dentist
How can you know that the toothache you have is normal or something to be concerned about? At times, those seemingly tiny dental conditions can be potential problems for your dental health. And, not addressing the dental problems on time could make all the difference. It is vital to know what is an urgent and non-urgent dental emergency so you can visit an emergency dental clinic on time.
What is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any bruising that affects the teeth, gums, soft tissues, and dental restorations. Most of these dental accidents do cause pain, but at times you can have an urgent dental problem with no pain. It is, therefore, important to know the signs of a dental emergency. Here are five signs to watch out for:
1. Bleeding Gums
Gum bleeding can at times be caused by brushing vigorously with a hard toothbrush. This bleeding, however, only lasts for a few minutes. If it doesn’t, rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can do the trick. However, if you have severe and unexplained bleeding could be a problem.
Gum bleeding can be caused by two factors: soft tissue injuries and gum disease or decay. Soft tissues in the gums can get bruised due to a fall or a direct impact to the mouth. Bite a gauze pad to control the bleeding.
Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the gingivae. Not addressing the infection on time could cause the gums to recede and also affect the teeth.
Advanced periodontal disease can cause tooth decay and lead to the deterioration of the supporting bone. When you notice unexplained gum bleeding, you need emergency dental care. The dentist needs to assess the teeth and remove the infection before it spreads.
2. Toothache
Tooth pain, though common, does not occur on its own. It can be caused by various causes, like food stuck in between the gums. However, when you have sharp and persistent pain, it could be due to decay or a fractured tooth. When decay spreads to the pulp cavity, it could cause pain and sensitivity.
Although mild pain can be addressed at home, it is important to seek emergency dental treatment for persistent toothache. Removing the infected pulp is important to your oral health.
3. Loose Teeth
Loose teeth in children is not a cause of concern, because usually, it is the primary teeth coming out. However, matured permanent teeth are designed to last for a lifetime. When they become loose, it could be a sign of fracture or decay. A direct blow to the mouth could cause the teeth to detach from the socket. At times, the teeth can get completely dislodged, and you’ll need immediate treatment to try and save your teeth.
4. Swollen Mouth or Jaw
Your jaw can get swollen because of a bacterial infection. The bacteria can get into the jaw, block the salivary ducts, and stop the flow of saliva. The accumulation of the fluid will cause the jaw to swell. TMJ can also cause the jaw to swell.
A swollen jaw can cause pain and make it hard for you to move the jaw when speaking or eating.
5. Abscess
A dental abscess is a pus accumulation in the gums and causes inflammation. An abscess needs immediate dental treatment to stop it from spreading to the nearby tissues or getting into the bloodstream. This can cause widespread inflammation or even sepsis. Contact our emergency dentistry in Ajax, ON, if you notice pimples in the gums.
What to Do When an Emergency Occurs?
How you handle a dental emergency can either preserve your teeth or cause further complications. Here are a few tips:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to remove debris and germs. This will help to prevent infection.
- Stop the bleeding with a gauze pad or teabag.
- Control swelling using an ice pack
- Reduce pain with pain medications, but first, consult the dentist.
Take Action!
Visit KC Dental for immediate treatment if you are experiencing some abnormality in your teeth and gums. We will assess the situation and prescribe a suitable treatment. Our family dentist in Ajax, ON, will also share information on our other services.