How do I know if I have a dental emergency?
If you are dealing with swelling, pain, discomfort, or overall dental trauma, it is always best to contact your dentist as soon as possible. If you ignore a minor dental issue, it can easily progress to a more advanced issue. For instance, if you leave dental decay untreated, it can cause intense pain or discomfort, which may ultimately lead to an emergency dental visit.
In theory, a dental emergency is any condition that affects the teeth and surrounding supporting structures. In this post, we will explore three of the most common dental emergencies that patients face.
Common Types of Dental Emergencies
Knocked-Out Tooth
In the case that your tooth is knocked out during physical contact, it is important to visit the dentist in a timely manner. In some cases, a knocked-out tooth can be saved.
If you have a knocked-out tooth, try to hold it by the crown. You want to rinse the tooth with milk or water without coming into contact with the root of the tooth. Be sure to contact our Sterling, VA dental office for an emergency visit.
Broken or Cracked Tooth
Even a small crack in your teeth can lead to intense dental pain. In advanced cases, a severe crack or fracture in the tooth can lead to further complications. It is best to consult with your dentist and find solutions to help repair your tooth damage.
Our team at Brighter Smile Family Dentistry & Orthodontics offers a wide range of solutions for damaged teeth. Dr. Kavianpour can work with you to find a solution that is right for your smile.
Tooth Pain
A toothache that won’t go away can warrant an emergency dental visit. Common causes for a toothache can include the following:
- Tooth decay
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Damaged dental restoration
- Tooth sensitivity
- Cracked or fractured tooth
- Abscess
- Exposed dentin
- Gum infection
If it is difficult to chew or speak, be sure to contact your dentist. A dentist can help find ways to mage your pain and provide you with the treatment you need to avoid any future complications.