Emergency dental situations can arise without warning and leave you feeling helpless. This article will explain what to consider when faced with a dental emergency, from familiarising yourself with common dental emergencies to the steps you should take in an emergency.
What Is A Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any dental problem that requires immediate treatment to prevent further damage or pain. Common dental emergencies include broken teeth, abscesses, loose teeth, and lost crowns or fillings. In most cases, these issues cannot wait until regular office hours and require prompt attention. It’s important to know what to do if you find yourself in a dental emergency so that proper care can be taken as quickly as possible.
What Should You Do In A Dental Emergency?
In a dental emergency, the first step is to contact your dental office as soon as possible. If you’re in extreme pain or have had significant dental trauma, visit the nearest emergency room. Occasionally, dental emergencies can be treated with antibiotics and over-the-counter pain relievers. However, if your dental emergency requires more extensive dental work, it’s important to get an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible so that permanent damage does not occur.
When Should You Visit The Er?
In most cases, dental emergencies require a visit to the dentist rather than the ER unless you are experiencing severe facial swelling or uncontrollable bleeding. If you have any issues at all that cannot wait until you can get to your dental office, you should seek medical attention right away.
How Can You Prevent A Dental Emergency?
The best way to prevent dental emergencies is to practice good dental hygiene and visit your dentist regularly. During regular dental visits, your dentist will be able to diagnose any potential dental problems early on, allowing for prompt treatment and possibly preventing the need for emergency dental care. Additionally, it’s essential to take precautions when participating in activities that could lead to dental trauma or injury such as contact sports or skateboarding.
What Are Common Dental Emergencies?
Common dental emergencies range from minor issues like loose fillings or chipped teeth to major issues such as broken jaw bones or dental abscesses. Some of the most common dental emergencies are:
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Lost fillings and crowns
- Loose teeth
- Abscessed teeth
- Toothaches
- Knocked out teeth
The Bottom Line
Dental emergencies can be stressful and painful, but taking action as quickly as possible is important to prevent further damage or pain. Knowing what types of dental emergencies may occur, how to deal with them, and how to prevent dental emergencies in the first place can help you stay prepared for any dental emergency situation that arises.
FAQs
Q1: Is it always necessary to visit the ER for dental emergency?
A1: In most cases, dental emergencies require a visit to the dentist rather than the ER unless you are experiencing severe facial swelling or uncontrollable bleeding. If you have any issues at all that cannot wait until you can get to your dental office, you should seek medical attention right away.
Q2: What is the best way to prevent dental emergencies?
A2: The best way to prevent dental emergencies is to practice good dental hygiene and visit your dentist regularly. During regular dental visits, your dentist can diagnose any potential dental problems early on, allowing for prompt treatment and possibly preventing the need for emergency dental care. Additionally, taking precautions when participating in activities that could lead to dental trauma or injury, such as contact sports or skateboarding, is essential.
Q3: What are some common dental emergencies?
A3: Common dental emergencies range from minor issues like loose fillings or chipped teeth to major issues such as broken jaw bones or dental abscesses. Some common dental emergencies include chipped or broken teeth, lost fillings and crowns, loose teeth, abscessed teeth, toothaches, and knocked-out teeth.
