Most people are aware of how it goes.
You wake up at 2 am with a sharp sensation under one of your teeth, and you just know that you are in for a bad night’s sleep!
Also, as any dental surgery will tell you, dental emergencies can occur at any time and can be caused by numerous factors. In the aforementioned example, it could be due to an abscess, a lost filling, or even a severe crack in the enamel. None of these are ideal!
While some dental issues can be dealt with on a non-urgent basis, others require immediate attention. But how do you distinguish between them?
Here are 5 signs of a dental emergency that should not be ignored:
Severe Tooth Discomfort or Sensitivity
If you’re experiencing severe and persistent tooth pain, it could be a sign of a dental infection, abscess, or decay. Ignoring the pain could lead to more severe complications, including tooth loss. The best course of action is to see a dental Coorparoo team as soon as possible. That way, if there is an abscess, it can be treated quickly, and if there are other causes, such as a lost restorative or a crack, these can be filled.
Swelling
If you notice swelling in your gums or cheeks, it could be a sign of a dental abscess or infection. These conditions can cause severe pain, fever, and difficulty swallowing. So, you should seek emergency dental care right away.
However, you may be curious if you need to take the same action if the swelling isn’t causing any discomfort. Well, the answer is yes! A swelling without sensation can point to an impacted tooth or an allergy, both of which will need urgent attention.
Broken or Cracked Tooth
A broken or cracked tooth can be caused by trauma or biting down on something hard. In some cases, the tooth may be salvageable with a crown or filling, or, if the root is exposed, any discomfort can be mitigated with a root canal. However, if the break is severe or the tooth is knocked out, seek immediate dental attention, as an infection can set in quickly and can be very uncomfortable!
Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums are often a sign of gum disease, which can cause tooth loss if left untreated. If your gums bleed regularly, see a dentist as soon as possible. In some cases, bleeding gums can also be a sign of a dental emergency, such as an injury or infection, or even a sign that you have a tooth that is about to fall out and needs to be splinted. So, call an emergency dental team!
Lost or Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth is knocked out or lost due to trauma, seek emergency dental care immediately. The tooth may be able to be saved if the patient acts quickly and follows the proper steps. Always aim to find as much of the tooth as you can and place it into milk. If the tooth cannot be saved, a dentist can provide options for replacing the missing tooth.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
