Any dental problems that demand immediate medical treatment are considered to be an emergency. Some common ailments such as severe toothache, bleeding of the gums, or the necessity to save a tooth have to be attended on an emergency basis. It also includes tooth infections which can be life-threatening. It is crucial to understand what constitutes a dental emergency before seeking immediate help.
What constitutes a Dental Emergency?
- If you have cracked or injured a tooth and it is treated immediately, it could save the tooth.
- In case you are suffering from severe pain and bleeding, it requires immediate medical attention.
- A swollen face or swelling of the gums could be an indication of a serious gum infection. It could be an abscess in the mouth or a life-threatening problem that should be treated as soon as possible.
- If the cavities are left untreated, it may cause significant pain and discomfort, calling for speedy attention. The cavity will develop and cause damage to the pulp, weaken the tooth, and lead to its extraction.
- If you have bleeding in the mouth, it a sign that you need emergency treatment.
- Dental emergencies can also arise during an athletic injury or automobile accident where the tooth might have chipped, broken, or knocked out. It is best to seek emergency treatments in such instances.
How should you handle some common Dental Emergencies?
- If you have cracked a tooth, try to rinse your mouth immediately with warm water and clean the area. Reduce the swelling by putting a cold compress on the face.
- In case you have a knocked-out permanent tooth, keep the tooth moistened at all times. Try to place it back into the tooth socket without touching its root, and if that is not possible, use a tooth preservative and seek immediate dental help.
- Tooth pain can be quite intolerable. One can get relief from the pain by rinsing the mouth with warm water, cleaning it, and gently using a piece of dental floss to remove any food particles stuck between the teeth.
- Try not to use sharp or pointed objects to remove the objects stuck in the mouth.
- Apply a cold compress if you bit your tongue or lip and clean the area with water.
What steps should be taken to prevent some Dental Emergencies?
Some of the dental emergencies could be prevented in the following ways:
- It is best to refrain from eating hard and crunchy food items.
- Avoid biting and chewing ice cubes.
- Use scissors or a knife to cut or tear things. Though your teeth are strong and sturdy, they may still break or crack easily if too much force is used to cut or tear.
- Wear a customized mouth guard to prevent injuries to the teeth. Mouth-guards will protect you from concussions and broken teeth.
Call us at West Valley Natural Dentistry or schedule an online appointment to know more about Emergency Dentistry.
