It is important to take good care of your teeth, as poor oral hygiene can lead to a variety of dental health problems. Seeing an emergency dentist is often necessary if you experience any sort of dental emergency. However, many people don’t know when they should seek emergency care.
Here are five signs that you should see an emergency dentist as soon as possible.
Sign #1: Your Tooth Is Broken
If you have a broken tooth, it is important to seek emergency dental care as soon as possible. A broken tooth can cause extreme discomfort, as well as put you at risk for developing an infection or other serious oral health issues. Many times, a broken tooth can be repaired with a filling or crown, depending on the severity of the break. An emergency dentist can provide the necessary treatment to restore your tooth and relieve your discomfort.
Sign #2: You Get Frequent Toothaches
If you find yourself experiencing frequent, persistent toothaches, it’s time to see an emergency dentist. While occasional toothaches occur from time to time, if you’re experiencing them consistently it could be a sign of a more serious dental issue that needs to be addressed. You may be experiencing a toothache due to an infection, damaged filling, or an abscess. In any case, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid further damage. An emergency dentist can diagnose the source of your toothache and provide appropriate treatment to relieve your pain and prevent further damage.
Sign #3: Your Mouth, Jaw, or Gums Is Swollen
If you’re experiencing swelling in your mouth, jaw, or gums, it’s important to seek dental care as soon as possible. Swelling in these areas can be a sign of a serious dental issue, and should be addressed by an emergency dentist as soon as possible.
The most common cause of jaw, mouth, or gum swelling is infection. Infections can be caused by a number of different dental issues, such as cavities, abscesses, or gum disease. In some cases, the infection may be severe enough to cause swelling, pain, and tenderness in the affected area. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.
In some cases, the swelling could be a sign of a more serious problem, such as a tumor or cancer. If you have a history of cancer or other health issues, it’s important to have any swelling in these areas checked out by an emergency dentist immediately.
It’s also important to note that swelling in the mouth, jaw, or gums could be a sign of an allergic reaction. Allergies to food, medication, or other substances can cause swelling and irritation in these areas. If you have recently eaten something that you are allergic to, or taken medication that you are allergic to, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.
Sign #4: Your Mouth Tastes Like Metal
If your mouth tastes like metal, it could be a sign that something is wrong with your oral health. It could indicate a dental emergency, and you should seek immediate care from an emergency dentist.
Metal taste in your mouth can be caused by several issues, including cavities, gum disease, and even certain medications. If left untreated, these conditions can cause severe tooth decay, gum disease, and even abscesses.
Sign #5: You Have Bleeding Gums
If you have bleeding gums, it could be a sign that you need to see an emergency dentist. Bleeding gums are a common symptom of gum disease, which is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria in the mouth.
Gum disease is an infection of the soft tissue and bone that supports the teeth. If left untreated, the infection can spread and cause further damage to the gums and teeth. Symptoms of gum disease can include red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see an emergency dentist right away.
Conclusion
It is important to recognize the signs that may indicate you need to see an emergency dentist. These signs include the ones we have shared here with you. If you experience any of these signs, it is important to seek emergency dentistry as soon as possible to prevent further damage and long-term health problems. While some dental issues can wait for a regular appointment, emergency dental care is often the best option to ensure a fast and successful resolution of the problem.
Westborough Dental Association offers emergency dentistry and other dental services from a trusted professional in Westborough, MA. Schedule your appointment with our dentist today!