When to Call and What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?

Dental emergencies can happen to anyone, and they often require immediate attention from a qualified dentist. But what exactly is a dental emergency, and when should you call an emergency dentist? In this article, we'll explore the most common dental emergencies and provide guidance on how to book an emergency dentist appointment.

What is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate attention from a dentist to alleviate severe pain, stop bleeding, or prevent permanent damage to your teeth, gums, or jaw. Common dental emergencies include:

Toothache: A severe toothache can be a sign of a tooth infection, a cracked tooth, or other dental problems that require immediate attention from a dentist.
Knocked-out tooth: If your tooth is knocked out due to a sports injury or accident, it's important to see a dentist immediately. In some cases, the tooth can be re-implanted if you act fast.
Broken or chipped tooth: A broken or chipped tooth can cause pain and sensitivity, and it may require dental treatment to restore the tooth's structure and function.
Abscessed tooth: A dental abscess is a painful infection in the tooth or gums that requires immediate attention from a dentist. If left untreated, an abscessed tooth can cause serious complications, such as bone loss or even sepsis.
A loose or missing dental crown or filling: If your dental crown or filling becomes loose or falls out, it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your tooth.
Jaw pain or injury: If you experience jaw pain, swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth, it could be a sign of a serious dental problem that requires immediate attention from a dentist.
Bleeding gums: If your gums are bleeding excessively or won't stop bleeding, it could be a sign of gum disease or another serious dental problem that requires prompt attention.

When to Call an Emergency Dentist?

If you're experiencing any of the dental emergencies listed above, it's important to call an emergency dentist as soon as possible. In general, if you're in severe pain, bleeding uncontrollably, or have a dental problem that requires immediate attention, you should seek emergency dental care.

To book an emergency dentist appointment, call your dentist's office and explain your situation. If your regular dentist is unavailable, they may be able to refer you to an emergency dentist or dental clinic in your area. You can also search online for "emergency dentist near me" to find a local dentist who offers emergency dental care.

It's important to note that some dental emergencies, such as a knocked-out tooth, require immediate attention to increase the chances of saving the tooth. If you're unable to see an emergency dentist right away, follow these steps to increase the chances of saving the tooth:

Rinse the tooth with water to remove any dirt or debris.
Gently place the tooth back in its socket, if possible.
If you can't re-implant the tooth, place it in a container of milk or saliva to keep it moist.
Seek emergency dental care as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Dental emergencies can be scary and overwhelming, but it's important to seek prompt attention from a qualified emergency dentist to prevent further damage to your teeth and gums. By understanding what qualifies as a dental emergency and knowing how to book an emergency dentist appointment, you can ensure that you receive the care you need when you need it. Remember, if you're experiencing a dental emergency, don't hesitate to call your dentist or seek emergency dental care immediately.