Many people will experience a dental emergency at some point in their lives, which can be caused by underlying oral health issues or injuries. Our Bolton dentists can help you figure out if your dental problem is an emergency and what to do about it.
What is a dental emergency?
Any problem with your teeth, mouth or gums that requires urgent dental treatment is a dental emergency. Specifically, this can include:
Broken, Chipped, or Knocked Out Tooth
A broken or chipped tooth can usually be repaired but will require urgent dental care. The dentist may be able to repair the fracture or chip with a filling, whereas more serious breaks may need a crown or root canal.
A dentist may be able to replace a tooth that has been knocked out within an hour of the incident. Within this time frame, the tooth has a better chance of taking root again. After two hours, the chances are significantly reduced, and alternative measures must be considered.
Severe Toothache
If you have a toothache that you can't relieve with over-the-counter pain relievers, apply ice to the affected area and contact your dentist right away, as this is a dental emergency.
Toothaches can indicate potential major dental issues, so it is important to take them seriously.
Lost Filling
A missing filling is also dangerous because it exposes the interior of your tooth and weakens its structure. It's critical to see a dentist as soon as possible to have the filling replaced. Replace the filling with a softened piece of sugarless gum to protect the area until you can get to the dentist.
Object Lodged Between Teeth
Objects lodged between the teeth can be dangerous and require immediate attention from your dentist. If you can't get the object out with floss, don't try to remove it with a sharp object because it could push it deeper between your teeth and injure your gums.
Bitten Tongue or Lip
If you have bleeding that won't stop after biting your tongue or lip, you should seek treatment at an emergency dental clinic. In the meantime, press down on the bleeding area of the mouth with a clean cloth. Reduce swelling with an ice pack and seek emergency dental care.
Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a buildup of pus which forms inside the teeth or gums. This very painful condition usually develops from a bacterial infection, often within the soft pulp of the tooth or the root of the tooth. They can be caused by a cavity that’s been left untreated, severe gum disease or perhaps a chipped tooth.
A bad taste in your mouth, swollen glands, pain, pus, or fever are all possible symptoms. Surgery is usually required to drain an abscessed tooth and properly treat it. Root canal surgery may be required to treat dental abscesses.