Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential for maintaining a healthy mouth, but unfortunately, even the most careful dental care routines can’t always prevent dental emergencies.
Dental emergencies can range from minor to severe, and can vary greatly in intensity. In this article, we’ll break down some of the most common dental emergencies, their causes, and how to avoid them. By arming yourself with this knowledge, you can better protect your teeth and gums from any unforeseen dental emergency.
Common Dental Emergencies You Should Know
1. Toothache
Toothaches can be a real nuisance and are one of the most common dental emergencies. A toothache can be caused by various issues, such as a cracked tooth, an abscessed tooth, a deep cavity, gum disease, or a sinus infection. Whatever the cause, the pain can be severe and should be taken seriously.
If you experience a toothache, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever to help manage the discomfort. You should also rinse your mouth out with warm water, and if you can, gently floss around the affected area to remove any food particles that may be stuck in the area.
If the pain is extremely severe, you may want to consider applying a cold compress to the outside of your face to help reduce swelling. If the pain persists or worsens, it’s best to seek medical attention right away. Your dentist will be able to assess the cause of the pain, provide a treatment plan, and help alleviate the discomfort.
2. Chipped or Broken Teeth
Chipped or broken teeth can be a very difficult dental emergency to face. With that in mind, don’t hesitate to take action quickly to prevent further damage and discomfort. After all, the best way to treat this problem is to seek immediate dental care from a professional.
When a tooth is chipped or broken, your dentist will first assess the severity of the damage. If the chip or break is minor, then the tooth can usually be repaired with a dental filling. If the damage is more severe, a dental crown or root canal may be necessary. In some cases, the tooth may need to be extracted to prevent infection.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth
One of the most common dental emergencies is a knocked-out tooth. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as a fall or a blow to the face. If you experience a knocked-out tooth, the most important thing to do is to act quickly.
Time is of the essence in this situation. The longer you wait, the less likely it is that the tooth can be saved. If possible, try to locate the tooth and pick it up by the crown (the part of the tooth that is visible when you smile). Do not touch the root of the tooth, as this can damage it.
If the tooth is dirty, rinse it with water but do not scrub or use any soap. Try to place the tooth back into the socket and gently bite down to hold it in place. If it cannot be placed back in the socket, keep the tooth in a container of milk or saliva.
Visit your dentist as soon as possible to assess the situation. In some cases, the tooth can be saved and reattached. If not, your dentist will be able to provide you with other options to replace the missing tooth.
4. Lost Filling or Crown
Lost fillings and crowns are some of the most common dental emergencies that people experience. They can be caused by decay, trauma, or an improper fit. If you experience a lost filling or crown, it’s important to take action quickly to prevent further damage and restore your smile.
When you lose a filling, it’s important to cover the exposed area with a piece of sugar-free gum or a dental cement product. This will help prevent bacteria from entering the exposed area and causing decay. If you’re unable to find a product to cover the area, you can also use a small piece of cotton to act as a temporary solution.
If you lose a crown, it’s important to try to locate it and bring it with you to the dentist. If you’re unable to locate it, the dentist will need to take an impression of the area to create a new crown.
The Bottom Line: Never Ignore or Put Off Dental Emergencies
When it comes to dental emergencies, the bottom line is that they should never be ignored or put off. Many people think that they can wait until the next day or even the next week to get treatment for a dental emergency, but this can be a huge mistake.
Ignoring a dental emergency can cause the problem to worsen, leading to more costly and painful treatments down the line. By seeking professional help right away, you can ensure that your dental health is taken care of and that you’re not left with any long-term problems.
If you’re in need of emergency dentistry services in Westborough, contact Westborough Dental Associates today. We’ll be happy to provide you with the urgent care you need to get your smile back on track!