Dental emergencies can be painful and frightening experiences. They can range from a sudden, sharp pain in your teeth or gums to an injury that affects the soft tissues of your mouth. What constitutes a dental emergency, and how to respond to it?
What is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation that causes sudden, unexpected pain or injury to the mouth’s teeth, gums, or soft tissues. It can range from a toothache, a broken tooth, or an abscessed tooth to a knocked-out tooth, a bitten tongue or lip, and even a jaw injury. A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate attention from a dentist in order to prevent further damage or pain.
Types of Dental Emergencies
Many different types of dental emergencies can occur. Some of the most common emergencies include:
- Toothache: A toothache is a common dental emergency that a variety of issues, such as decay, infection, or trauma, can cause.
- Broken or Chipped Tooth: A broken or chipped tooth is a dental emergency requiring a dentist’s immediate attention.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention from a dentist to save the tooth.
- Bitten Tongue or Lip: A bitten tongue or lip can be a dental emergency if the bite is deep and causes bleeding that won’t stop.
- Abscessed Tooth: An abscessed tooth is an infection that can cause pain, swelling, and fever. It can be a dental emergency if it is left untreated.
- Jaw Injury: A jaw injury can be a dental emergency if it causes pain or difficulty moving the jaw.
What Should You Do in a Dental Emergency?
You should contact your dentist immediately if you’re experiencing a dental emergency, you should contact your dentist immediately. Your dentist can advise you on how to handle the emergency and provide treatment if necessary. Take steps to minimise pain and prevent further damage. For example, if you have a knocked-out tooth, you should try to find the tooth and put it in a container of milk or saliva. This will help preserve the tooth and increase the chances of being saved.
Treatment for a Dental Emergency
The type of treatment required for a dental emergency will depend on the specific issue. For acute issues, such as a toothache or broken or lost tooth, the dental professional may recommend pain relief, antibiotics, or a dental procedure. The dental professional may recommend a cleaning, filling, or root canal for chronic issues, such as gum disease or cavities.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
You can take several steps to reduce your risk of experiencing a dental emergency. The most important step is to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day, limiting sugary and acidic foods and beverages, and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. It is also important to protect your teeth and gums during contact sports and other activities, as this can help reduce the risk of oral injury.
Dental emergencies can be frightening and painful experiences, but knowing what to do in the event of an emergency can make all the difference. It’s important to recognise the signs of a dental emergency and take steps to prevent them from occurring. If you experience a dental emergency, contacting your dentist immediately is important. With the right care and treatment, most dental emergencies can be resolved quickly and effectively.
Dental Emergency in Wahroonga Dental Group, Wahroonga, NSW, Australia
We are here to help with any dental emergency at Wahroonga Dental Group. Our team of experienced professionals are available for any dental emergency in Wahroonga. Contact us today for the best care.