Dental emergencies are different from regular dental check-ups. While you need to see your dentist twice a year for cleanings, x-rays, and so forth, dental emergencies are unexpected.
But what counts as emergency dentistry? How do you know whether to wait or call your dentist immediately?
Here are some instances that you need to consider a dental emergency, and why you should take your dental emergencies to Howe Dental.
1. Lost Tooth
Losing a tooth is scary and may constitute needing emergency dental care. When you lose a tooth, your gums are exposed to bacteria and other germs, so making sure you're able to get a dentist quickly.
If you have the tooth, hold onto it. Some dentists can reinsert and restore it, rather than craft a new one. It's also easier on your pocketbook.
2. Trauma
Anytime you experience physical trauma, it's considered an emergency, like breaking a bone or getting into a car accident. It's the same with teeth. If you've experienced trauma to the tooth or jaw, you'll need to see an emergency dentist.
This could be a cut to the jaw or gumline, excessively bleeding gums, knocked-out tooth, a broken crown or implant, and so forth. If you're not sure, you can always call your dental office.
3. Unexplainable Pain
Sometimes your mouth hurts, and you're not sure why. It could be because of a broken tooth, trauma to the face, and more. However, if you've started having pain without any reason, you should probably see an emergency dentist.
Unexplainable pain could be a symptom of a larger problem. If it's not addressed quickly, it could get worse. Your dentists may run some tests and do some x-rays to see what the problem is and why you have pain.
4. Cracked or Broken Teeth
Cracked and broken teeth are most certainly a dental emergency. They can be extremely painful and may even cause severe bleeding. Cracked teeth are also very sharp and could cause more damage to your mouth.
Chipped teeth that are not sharp or bleeding may not be as urgent. However, if you're not sure, you can always call your dentist to explain the situation.
5. Infections
An infection of your tooth or mouth needs to be seen as soon as possible. This is because, without proper treatment or antibiotics, the infection could spread to the surrounding teeth. Typically, you know you have an infection if there's swelling, redness, pus, or an abscess in your mouth, but that's not always the case.
Infections that are advanced need to be seen immediately to stop them from growing and harming the rest of your mouth. Depending on the type of infection you have, the dentist may give you antibiotics or drain your abscess.
Are You Prepared For Dental Emergencies?
Dental emergencies are an inconvenience, but you don't have to suffer. You can get help when you need it, and restore your oral health.
If you think that you need a dentist for a dental emergency, contact Howe Dental to schedule your appointment today. No matter what your dental emergency is, we're here to help.