Knowing when to seek emergency dental care can be tricky. While many dental issues are extremely time sensitive, others can be left for months with little risk.
Some tooth problems, like cavities, are slow to change. If there is no pain and the dental issue is not the result of trauma, usually treatment can wait until the next business day. However, there are some dental problems that cannot wait even a few hours. The following issues constitute emergencies.
If a tooth has become loosened or been knocked out entirely, it needs to be fixed immediately. The difference between being able to save a tooth and having to lose it permanently is only a few hours.
If the tooth has been knocked loose, rinse it gently in water, touching the root as little as possible. Then try to place the tooth back in its socket for the journey to the dentist’s office. If the tooth will not fit back in its socket, place it in a cup of water or milk and bring it with.
Cracked teeth may or may not be an emergency. A small chip can usually wait a few days. If large pieces of the tooth are missing or if a crack has appeared on the tooth, immediate action is necessary. Sometimes what appear to be cracks are merely “stress fractures,” a relatively harmless condition that rarely requires treatment. However, only a dentist is able to correctly tell if the tooth is in immediate danger.
Bleeding from a dental injury should be easily stopped with some gauze and light pressure. If gums continue to bleed despite these measures, it is considered an emergency.
A severe toothache is almost always cause for an immediate dental appointment. Pain typically signals an infection or tooth damage that has reached the nerve. Both are urgent issues. At-home treatments for toothache can be tried first, but if the issue does not resolve, then a dentist needs to be consulted.
Swelling of the jaw or mouth is often a sign of an infection or abscess. These require immediate attention once they have become severe. Slight swelling or moderate pain can probably wait until normal business hours to be addressed. Anything that comes on suddenly should be seen right away.
Swelling can increase rapidly if left untreated, and swelling around the face and mouth can be particularly dangerous because of the possibility of restricting the airways. If swelling worsens or persists, do not wait to schedule an appointment.
It is always better to be safe than sorry. When it is not clear whether a situation is an emergency, err on the side of caution. Schedule an emergency dental appointment or at least call for a short phone consultation. A dentist may be able to identify the severity of the issue over the phone.
Request an appointment here: https://drdelucia.com/ or call Anthony DeLucia D.D.S., P.A. at (772) 492-7045 for an appointment in our Stuart office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
A cosmetic dentist specializes in enhancing the appearance of the teeth, gums, and smile through various treatments designed to improve both function and aesthetics. While general dentists provide essential care to maintain oral health, a cosmetic dentist focuses on cosmetic procedures that can transform the look of your smile. Visiting this professional offers several key…
Searching for a dentist near me can feel simple at first, but choosing the right office often takes more than clicking the first listing that appears online. A local dental practice should do more than offer a convenient address. It should provide reliable care, clear communication, and the right mix of services to support both…
A cosmetic dentist is one who focuses on the appearance of your smile. Although every smile is beautiful, it is common to want to enhance certain aspects of your smile and minimize others. With a little preparation, patients can make the most out of their consultation at a cosmetic dentist's office and get one step…
A cosmetic dentist uses a variety of techniques to enhance the appearance and functionality of teeth. Dental bonding is one of the most common and effective methods used to repair minor tooth imperfections. This procedure can enhance the aesthetics and strength of a tooth, offering a quick and affordable solution for patients seeking a more…