Getting emergency dentistry is important to help protect your teeth. For example, a broken tooth can be traumatic. The good news is that getting treatment right away can help prevent long-term issues and fix cosmetic problems. Keep reading to learn more about when to seek out emergency dentistry.
Many times, teeth break because of a forceful impact. Other times, dental issues such as lost fillings or large cavities cause the breakage. No matter what the cause is, it is vital to seek emergency dental care. There are many types of cracked teeth.
For example, there may only be a chip in the enamel on the tooth’s exterior. On the other hand, the tooth may be completely broken, exposing the pulp and dentin. There are no blood vessels or nerves in the enamel. This means that losing enamel might not cause the patient any pain.
However, if the tooth is completely broken, the patient may be in extreme pain. The pulp and dentin may be completely exposed to the air. Over time, the bacteria can cause an infection in the pulp. This can cause discoloration and more pain. The tooth may be very sensitive to temperature changes. The injury that caused the breakage may also cause pain in the area.
With the right care at home, it is more likely that there will be a good outcome. Patients with broken teeth should first place the broken pieces in a clean container. That way, they can easily be transported to the dentist. The part that remains in the mouth should be gently rinsed with warm water. This can remove debris and dirt from the area.
If there was an injury, a cold compress should be placed on the area. This can help prevent swelling. One of the signs that emergency care is required is red, exposed pulp. Seeing the yellow dentin is another sign that immediate care is required.
Patients should also avoid eating hard foods. The sharp edges of the tooth can be covered with chewing gum or dental wax. That way, the gums can be better protected. If there was an injury, the jaw may be broken. Patients must seek emergency dentistry if they cannot bring the lower and upper teeth together.
The right treatment will depend on the amount of damage. Over time, infected dental pulp will die. Patients may need a root canal procedure to replace the pulp of the tooth. A patient may get a temporary crown to see if the pulp is infected. If it remains uninfected, the crown can protect the tooth. It can also restore the tooth’s appearance.
Taking precautions can help avoid cracked teeth. For example, mouthguards are a good option for athletes. However, accidents can still happen. The good news is that by following the right steps and getting emergency dental care right away can help.
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