Dental emergencies can occur unexpectedly, causing pain and discomfort that require immediate attention. Knowing how to respond to common dental issues can help alleviate pain and prevent further damage. Today we’re outlining a few frequently-occurring dental emergencies, their treatments, and the role of regular exams and cleanings in preventing such issues in the first place.
Common Dental Emergencies and Their Treatments
While dental emergencies come in all shapes and sizes, some pop up more frequently than others. Here are a few of the most common dental emergencies that one might encounter:
- Toothache and Severe Pain — A sharp, throbbing, and unrelenting toothache often indicates an underlying issue like advanced decay, infection, or a pocket of pus around the tooth, also known as an “abscess.” Without prompt treatment, these issues can make it difficult to eat, sleep, work, or even think clearly! Depending on the severity, an emergency toothache can call for various treatments, from a filling to root canal therapy to extraction.
- Broken or Chipped Teeth — Accidental impact or biting on hard objects can cause teeth to break or chip. This affects the appearance of a person’s smile and can potentially expose its sensitive nerves, leading to severe discomfort and an increased risk of infection. If you have a broken or chipped tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and get to a dentist ASAP for dental crowns, bonding, or veneers to restore the tooth’s appearance and function.
- Knocked-Out Tooth — A knocked-out permanent tooth requires immediate action. Quick and proper handling of the tooth, including a gentle rinse and placement in milk, can increase the chances of saving the natural tooth via reimplantation.
- Lost or Broken Dental Restorations — Crowns, fillings, and other dental restorations can break or become loose. This exposes an already compromised tooth (hence the initial need for restoration) to damage, infection, heightened sensitivity, and pain. In these cases, it’s important to keep the area clean, not chew on that side of the mouth, and get to the dentist promptly to have the restoration repaired or replaced.
Importance of Preventive Care in Preventing Dental Emergencies
Regular dental exams and cleanings play a crucial role in preventing emergencies. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, dramatically reducing the risk of decay and gum disease. These routine checkups also allow your dentist to identify and address potential issues before they escalate into full-blown emergencies.
A commitment to proper preventive care will help you maintain oral health and ensure a bright, healthy smile while saving you the time, money, and discomfort of dental emergencies.
Caring and Compassionate Emergency Dentist in Appleton, WI
If you’re in the Appleton area and looking for a top-quality dental practice to provide you and your family with emergency dental care when you need it most, contact Dr. Katie Hareid and the friendly and knowledgeable Fox Valley Dental Center team to schedule a consultation!