Dental emergencies are frightening and can occur when you least expect them to. While some may happen by accident, others are the result of untreated decay or damage. Luckily, there are many ways to painlessly treat these unfortunate problems. Of course, the specific procedure you need will depend on the type of emergency you’re experiencing. Read on to learn more about dental emergencies, the most common treatments used, and tips for preventing these situations.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
First and foremost, it’s important to understand what constitutes a dental emergency. There has been a rise in dental-related visits to the emergency room in recent years, but most of those cases are not true emergencies. By knowing the difference between an actual emergency and something that can be dealt with down the line, you can spare yourself an unnecessary visit to the ER.
That said, here are some conditions that qualify as a true dental emergency:
- Pain – If you have persistent pain, you should visit your emergency dentist right away, especially if it’s accompanied by an abscess, swelling, fever, or loss of appetite.
- Mouth Injuries – Any type of mouth injury should be looked at by your dentist as soon as possible.
- Bleeding – Schedule an emergency appointment if you can’t control the bleeding in your mouth.
- Knocked-Out or Loose Tooth – If you have a knocked-out or loose tooth, you should see your emergency dentist right away for treatment.
Which Procedures Are Common for Dental Emergencies?
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular treatments used for dental emergencies:
Root Canal Therapy
If you have a severe toothache, your dentist may be able to address it with root canal therapy. It involves removing the infected portion of a tooth along with the nerves and blood supply found in the tooth’s inner chamber and roots. Your dentist will essentially be removing the entire decayed portion to alleviate your pain while allowing you to keep your tooth.
Dental Fillings
Have you lost your dental filling? Your dentist may simply replace it with a new one. Even though this is an issue that shouldn’t cause any pain, you should still let your dentist know right away when it happens.
Tooth Extraction
When teeth are damaged or decayed beyond repair, the best course of action may be to extract them. Although tooth extractions are common procedures, they’re quite invasive. That’s why you should consider a root canal instead if it’s possible.
Tooth Reattachment
If you have a knocked-out tooth, your dentist will try and reattach it by placing it back in its socket. Believe it or not, you can even do that yourself before you get to the dentist’s office. All you have to do is be extremely careful – try not to bite down on it or move it.
Dental emergencies are stressful enough as it is. By knowing what to expect during your emergency appointment, you can put some of those nerves to rest!
About the Practice
At Dr. Glen’s Happy Teeth, we strive to make every visit as comfortable, relaxing, and enjoyable as possible. Our team will always go the extra mile to ensure you receive the quality dental care you deserve. To learn more about our dental emergency services, visit our website or call (516) 517-0331.