When to Seek Treatment from an Emergency Dentist

While regular dental visits are vital for maintaining oral health, an urgent dental problem requires an emergency dentist. Dental emergencies, including severe pain, injury, or infection, require immediate attention to prevent complications and ensure the best outcome. Knowing when to seek care from an emergency dentist can be key to preserving oral health.

Severe Toothache or Persistent Pain

Severe tooth pain that persists despite pain relievers or becomes unbearable may signal a dental emergency, such as an infection, abscess, or extensive decay. When untreated, these issues can worsen, potentially affecting the surrounding teeth or spreading an infection to other body parts. An emergency dentist can evaluate the cause of the pain and provide treatments such as a root canal, filling, or extraction. Immediate treatment from an emergency dentist helps prevent further complications and restores comfort and functionality.

Broken, Chipped, or Knocked-Out Teeth

Knocked-out or severely broken or chipped teeth that impact the dental pulp require prompt attention. A broken or chipped tooth that exposes the inner layers of the tooth can lead to infection and tooth sensitivity. In cases where a tooth is knocked out, fast action can be the difference between preserving and losing the tooth. Keeping a knocked-out tooth moist or placing it back in the socket without touching the root can help preserve it. However, if this is not possible, a milk or saline solution container is the next best thing. Then, get to an emergency dentist so the tooth can be re-implanted.

Swelling and Infection

Swelling in the gums, face, or jaw may be a dental infection like an abscess. Dental abscesses are infections at the root of a tooth or in the surrounding gum tissue and often come with severe pain, fever, and a bad taste in the mouth. If left untreated, an abscess can spread, leading to more serious health problems, including infections in other parts of the body. An emergency dentist can drain the abscess to relieve pain, remove the infection, and prevent it from spreading. Antibiotics may be prescribed to control the infection, followed by a treatment plan to address the root cause.

Lost or Damaged Dental Restorations

Losing a filling, crown, or bridge can also be a dental emergency, especially if the affected tooth is exposed to sensitivity, pain, or further damage. Fillings and crowns are designed to protect and restore teeth after decay or damage, so their loss can leave teeth vulnerable to new issues. Attempting to continue daily activities with a missing restoration can lead to additional breakage or discomfort. Going to an emergency dentist to address lost or damaged dental work promptly ensures that the underlying tooth structure remains protected.

Uncontrolled bleeding

An emergency dentist should evaluate persistent or unexplained bleeding. Excessive bleeding, particularly after trauma or an extraction, can indicate complications that need to be addressed quickly. Prolonged bleeding might also suggest issues with clotting, infection, or other underlying health concerns. An emergency dentist can pinpoint the source of the bleeding and apply the appropriate treatment, such as medicated dressings or stitches. Prompt care for excessive bleeding helps maintain oral health and ensures that any underlying conditions are identified and treated.

Objects Lodged Between Teeth

When attempts to remove an object stuck between teeth with dental floss or other gentle tools fail, see an emergency dentist. If not removed properly, objects wedged between teeth can cause pain, inflammation, or infection. Additionally, self-treating by using sharp objects or excessive force to dislodge items can damage the teeth or gums, complicating the problem further. Instead, seek an emergency dentist who has the appropriate tools and resources.

Finding an emergency dentist

It is imperative to have an emergency plan in place before an emergency strikes. Usually, in the middle of a dental emergency, an individual is not in the best position to think and do research. Therefore, we recommend identifying an emergency dentist beforehand. Look for a provider who offers emergency dental services and has evening and weekend availability, as emergencies do not always happen during business hours. Patients can check with their regular dentist for advice on finding an emergency provider or read reviews of local emergency dentists online.

Act fast to protect your oral health

Knowing when to see an emergency dentist can make a crucial difference in preserving oral health and preventing further complications. When in doubt, reaching out to an emergency dentist is always a wise choice to safeguard a healthy, lasting smile. To learn more about our emergency dental services, call our team today.

Request an appointment here: https://alexoldtowndental.com or call Alexandria Old Town Dental at (703) 763-1078 for an appointment in our Alexandria office.

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