No Time to Lose: 5 Common Dental Emergencies

Patients could face a dental emergency for a variety of reasons. These emergency circumstances require fast action and must be treated based on the underlying causes. Reviewing the five common examples of a dental emergency helps patients determine when to call their dental professional after-hours for help.

1. Abscessed Wisdom Teeth

Abscessed wisdom teeth cause swelling of the gums, jaw, and the face. It is excruciatingly painful, and pus leaks into the mouth. The first sign of an abscess is pain and discomfort. The gums around the tooth begin to swell and once the swelling moves toward the patient’s face, jaw, or neck it becomes emergent. It is necessary for the patient to contact a 24 Hour Emergency Dentist and schedule services quickly. If the infection from the wisdom tooth enters the bloodstream, it presents a life-threatening situation.

2. A Dislodged Tooth

A dislodged tooth could be replaced easily if the patient follows vital steps after the tooth is dislodged. It is recommended that the patient rinse the tooth carefully without disturbing tissue or nerves. The tooth is placed in a jar of milk until the patient can get to the dental office. As long as the nerves and tissue stay intact, the dental professional can reinsert the tooth effectively. However, the patient has only a few short hours to visit the dentist before the tooth is no longer viable.

3. Chips or Cracks that are Painful

Chips and cracks are painful and require emergency dental visits. The openings in the tooth cause pain and discomfort while allowing air and bacteria inside the tooth. A dental professional provides fast treatment for the damaged tooth and eliminates the pain quickly. Dental bonding and reconstruction are viable choices for correcting a chip or crack in the tooth. The repair is cured with an ultraviolet lamp.

4. Dislocated or Broken Jaw

Dislocated or a broken jaw is corrected by dental surgery. The injury might require a surgical procedure to correct the damage and reconnect the jaw. After the procedure, the jaw is wired shut to prevent the patient from moving it while the jaw heals. The procedures will require a hospital stay and an extensive recovery time. Dental professionals perform facial surgeries to correct soft tissue damage linked to the broken jaw. The dental surgeries are performed quickly to prevent any abnormalities or permanent damage.

5. Sudden Tooth Pain

Sudden tooth pain is a sign there is a more severe underlying condition that requires a complete exam and assessment. Emergency dental professionals complete exams and x-rays to determine what is causing the pain and discomfort. There are numerous dental problems that lead to severe pain that isn’t treatable by over-the-counter medications. Once the source of the pain is discovered, dental professionals determine the best course of action to eliminate the pain and correct the underlying cause.

Dental patients could find themselves facing dental emergencies for several reasons including abscessed wisdom teeth, dislodged teeth, and chips or cracks. Dental professionals also perform surgeries to correct broken jaws and bone or soft tissue damage. Sudden tooth pain is the first symptom that patients experience right before emergency circumstances are noted. Reviewing the reasons why patients need emergency dental services helps them determine the most appropriate situations that require fast services and correction to prevent further complications and risks.