It is important to be proactive about your oral health; you should seek a professional evaluation for any uncomfortable or unusual symptoms. But when should you see your dentist? How can you tell if your current problem is a dental emergency or a less urgent issue? This blog post offers some helpful guidance.
Identifying a True Dental Emergency
A true dental emergency is any oral health problem that needs prompt care to relieve severe pain, control bleeding, treat infection, or save a tooth. You should call your dentist ASAP if you find yourself with any of the following problems:
- A knocked-out permanent tooth
- A tooth that has been pushed out of place or feels very loose
- Severe or throbbing tooth pain that does not improve
- A pimple-like bump on the gums near a tooth
- A cracked, broken, or fractured tooth that causes pain or cuts the mouth
- Swelling in the gums, jaw, or face that may point to an abscess or infection
- Bleeding in the mouth that does not stop with gentle pressure
- A lost crown, filling, or temporary restoration that causes significant pain or sensitivity
There are also times when it is better to go to the emergency room instead of the dentist’s office. Seek emergency medical care right away if you have trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling that is spreading quickly toward the eye or neck, signs of a broken jaw, serious facial trauma, a high fever with oral swelling, or bleeding that cannot be controlled. After you are medically stable, your dentist can help address the tooth or gum problem that caused the emergency.
When It May Be Safe to Wait
Not every dental problem requires same-day treatment. A small chip that is not painful, mild sensitivity, a lost filling or crown without severe pain, or a dull ache that comes and goes may be able to wait for a regular appointment. That does not mean you should put it off for weeks. It simply means that you may not need emergency care if your symptoms are mild, stable, and not getting worse.
While you wait, keep the area clean and avoid chewing on the affected side. Rinse gently with warm water, use floss carefully if food is caught between teeth, and choose soft foods if biting feels uncomfortable. If the situation takes a turn for the worse, call your dental team so they can fit you into their schedule sooner than originally planned.
Still Not Sure?
If you are unsure whether your symptoms count as an emergency, call your dentist and describe what is happening in as much detail as you can. Include when the problem started, how intense the pain feels, whether there is swelling or bleeding, and whether you sustained an injury. Your dental team can help you decide whether you should be seen immediately or schedule a visit for the near future.
Identifying a dental emergency is not always easy or straightforward! When in doubt, do not hesitate to seek guidance from your dentist’s office.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Reed David is a highly accomplished dentist who devotes an average of 100 hours each year to continuing education. He and our Charleston team are often able to address emergency cases on a same-day basis. To learn more about us or to request an appointment, contact Elevate Dentistry at 843-571-3560.