Emergency Dental FAQ
You’ve noticed that one of your teeth is causing you some discomfort. At first, you think that an aching tooth is nothing to worry about; you’ll call your dentist when you have time. But as the days go by, the pain only gets worse. It might be time to contact an emergency dentist.
If you’re concerned that you may need to book an emergency dentist appointment, don’t panic; you’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together this dental emergency FAQ to help answer your questions:
What Is a Dental Emergency?
How Can I Avoid Common Dental Emergencies?
Our first tip is to improve your oral hygiene routine. Flossing is just as important as brushing. Each day, set aside the time to brush your teeth at least twice, and use dental floss once.
If you play contact sports, we strongly recommend wearing a mouthguard; this will protect your teeth from impact damage. Those who grind or clench their teeth should wear a night guard while they sleep.
How Do I Know if I Have a Dental Emergency?
Pay attention to what you’re experiencing in the present moment. Symptoms of a dental emergency include:
- Severe pain
- Bleeding
- Sudden swelling
- Pus
- Loose teeth
- Cracked or broken tooth
If you have any of the above symptoms, we strongly recommend calling our emergency dental office.
What Is the Most Common Dental Emergency?
- Dental abscess
- Gum disease
- Broken, cracked, or chipped tooth
- Lost filling or crown
- Persistent toothache
When Should I Go to the Emergency Room vs. the Dentist?
When you’re facing a life-threatening injury, you need immediate attention from a healthcare professional. If you have a broken bone, uncontrollable bleeding, or severe pain, we advise that you call 911.
When Is TMD a Dental Emergency?
How Can I Find an Emergency Dentist Near Me?
What Can I Do To Relieve Pain or Swelling?
Do you have bleeding gums? We recommend that you avoid using dental floss until your dentist can treat the injury. To control the bleeding, you can place a washcloth or gauze over the area.
To numb the nerves in your mouth and reduce swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek. You can also take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drug, like ibuprofen.
When a tooth cracks or breaks, it creates sharp fragments that can injure your tongue or gums. Avoid further damage by placing orthodontic wax or sugarless gum over the area.
What Do I Do if One of My Permanent Teeth Falls Out?
First, locate the lost tooth. You can gently remove any food fragments or dirt that may be on it using water; just be careful not to rinse the underside of the tooth, which contains the roots. Then, try to reinsert the tooth into the socket. If you can’t, place it in a cup full of cold milk to keep it hydrated.
If you have a knocked-out tooth, you must seek treatment as soon as possible. Doing so will increase your chances of saving the tooth.
Do You Require Emergency Dental Care?
At our dentist’s office, we’ll assess your dental problems as soon as possible. Once we’ve found out what’s causing pain in your mouth, we can identify an effective treatment. If you need to see a specialist, we can assist you with pain management in the meantime.
At Edmonton Emergency Dentists, we’re here to help. To schedule your appointment, contact us today.