Dental emergencies can be incredibly stressful, particularly if your teeth are in pain or if you are travelling and unable to see your regular dentist. Visiting a dentist as soon as possible, however, can bring relief and peace of mind. This guide describes three of the most common dental crises and the appropriate response.
A tooth was knocked out.
Many individuals are unaware that a permanent tooth can sometimes survive after being knocked out. The NHS discusses the initial measures to follow if a tooth is knocked out, stating that the tooth should be picked up (but not by the root), cleaned, and placed back in the gum. If necessary, dissolve it in milk or saliva. You should then visit an emergency dentist as soon as possible, as the sooner you arrive, the greater the likelihood that the tooth can be preserved. If it cannot be salvaged, you will need to explore your options with your regular dentist.
A Dental Abscess
One of the most uncomfortable and painful dental emergencies is a dental abscess. It is a bacterial infection that can occur inside a tooth or gum, causing throbbing pain, aching gums, ear and jaw pain, and poor breath, among other symptoms. Abscesses are critical to treat because the infection that causes them can readily spread. The only way to treat an abscess is to visit an emergency dentist immediately so that the pus can be drained and the source of the illness addressed. In the meanwhile, you may wish to use an over-the-counter pain reliever and a heating pad on your face.
Toothache
A toothache is not usually an emergency, but there are circumstances in which emergency dentistry may be required. If your toothache has lasted more than two days or looks to be getting worse, you should visit an emergency dentist immediately. Additionally, you should visit the dentist if your mouth has an unusual taste or odour, as this could suggest an infection. If you press on a tooth that hurts and the pain gets worse, you need to see an emergency dentist right away. This could be a sign of severe decay or a broken tooth.
Whether you suspect an abscess, have knocked out a tooth, or have a persistent toothache, you must remain calm and schedule an appointment with an emergency dentist. A dentist on call can provide additional information.
