Most of us have been victims of a dental emergency. Whether as a child, an athlete, or a parent – many of us have first-hand experience dealing with the frantic phone call to the dentist. While never fun, it is important to remember that a dental emergency can be caused by a variety of things and that calling your dentist should always be one of the first things you do. Not sure what constitutes a dental emergency? Read on.
What is a Dental Emergency
There is no black and white definition when it comes to describing a dental emergency. Sometimes, a person may wake up out of the blue with a toothache. This seemingly minor dental issue could turn into a severe infection that leads to root canals, a crown, or even a tooth extraction. While not cut and dry, here are some examples of emergencies that should send you to the dentist right away:
- Trauma. If you or your child gets hit in the mouth and it causes bleeding, tooth loss, chipped or broken teeth, swelling, or severe pain.
- Sudden Pain. If you or your child experience a sudden onset of dental pain, either in the tooth or the gums, it could be a sign of an infection.
- Jaw Pain or Discomfort. If your jaw seems to be out of alignment or feels ‘stuck’, you may need to be evaluated for a jaw disorder called TMJ which causes severe inflammation in the jaw.
- Lost Filling. Sometimes, a filling can become dislodged from your tooth. When this happens, it opens up a ‘wound’ and can cause severe pain and sensitivity.
- Swollen or Bleeding Gums. If you or your child notices reddening or swelling of the gums, or the gums are so sensitive that they bleed when brushing or eating, it could be a sign of an infection that requires dental intervention.
Preventing the Unpreventable
No one can prevent an emergency situation, but there are some things you can do to help combat foreseeable issues.
- Mouthguards. If you or your child are involved in physical activities, it is important to wear mouth guards fit for your mouth to protect your teeth from trauma.
- Dental Hygiene. Many infections and dental or gum issues can be prevented with good dental hygiene habits. Brush your teeth twice every day for two minutes each time and don’t forget to floss!
- See Your Dentist. Schedule regular check-ups at least two times per year for routine cleaning, x-rays, and evaluation of any dental issues or diseases.
Here When You Need Us
At Colorado Dental Group, our professional dental team is proud to offer emergency dental services. Whether your night out at the baseball game turned out to be a painful dental situation or you woke up with a swollen tooth and severe pain, we are here for you! Schedule an appointment with our team right away if you are suffering from a dental emergency.