It is common to put off a visit to the dentist for as long as possible, even when patients see signs of dental health issues. However, an issue that seems insignificant can become severe rapidly and require emergency dental care. In this article, we list the signs you need emergency dental care.
Signs You Need Emergency Dental Care
Do not postpone an appointment with your dentist if you have any of the signs listed below.
A Tooth That Feels Loose or Mobile
Adult teeth should be stable and remain secure in their sockets. If you feel that one or several of your teeth are mobile or loose, it might be a sign of severe gum disease or decay. Loose teeth will not heal on their own, especially if the cause of the issue is not treated. Unfortunately, the most likely outcome of this situation, if it is not treated in a timely manner, is tooth loss. On top of that, severe oral infections can lead to issues with the other organs in the body, including life-threatening blood sepsis and jawbone deterioration.
Your Dental Bridge or Other Type of Restoration is Broken
A broken dental restoration can make the surrounding teeth and gums vulnerable to bacteria and infections. In addition, it can lead to lacerations in the mouth or other dental trauma. If your dental bridge or other type of restoration is broken, it should be replaced as soon as possible.
You Sustained an Oral Trauma or Your Tooth Got Knocked Out
Any oral trauma is a cause for an emergency dental appointment. In some cases, even if the teeth look fine, teeth nerves or the jawbone might have sustained damage, which will lead to issues in the future. An X-ray or a scan will help ensure that the issue is spotted in a timely manner.
A knocked-out tooth calls for immediate action. It is crucial to get to the dental office within the first 20 to 60 minutes after the accident. In some cases, a knocked-out tooth can be restored in its socket and heal over time. Put your tooth in a clean container, if possible with milk or saliva, and bring it to the office. Do not use water to clean or store the tooth.
Severe Toothache
Severe toothache that lasts for more than 1 to 2 days is another sign you need an emergency dental care, while it is still possible to save the nerves of the tooth from damage. Toothache can be accompanied by swelling in the face or jaw, fever, and headache.
The Toothache Suddenly Went Away
If you have experienced a severe toothache for several days and then suddenly feel nothing, it does not mean that the problem has disappeared on its own. Most likely, the infection has damaged the nerves of the tooth, and they can not feel pain anymore. In some cases, the tooth can still be saved with root canal treatment if you visit an emergency dental office.
Canker Sore That Does Not Go Away
Ulcers that occur in the mouth are commonly known as canker sores. They are relatively common and typically heal within several days. However, a canker sore that does not go away or becomes more extensive with time is a sign of an emergency. Such sores can also be accompanied by fever and swelling and indicate an infection or immune system problems.
Metal Taste in the Mouth
If you feel a metal taste in the mouth, it might mean that a filling’s sealant is compromised. When a sealant is broken, food particles and bacteria can penetrate the tooth’s inner chamber and cause infection. The sealant should be restored in a timely manner to prevent tooth decay and avoid more complicated treatments.
Painful and Bleeding Gums
A slight bleeding of the gum can occur from time to time while flossing with force. However, if the bleeding is persistent, it can be a sign to visit a dental office as soon as possible. Gum bleeding might signify progressed gum disease or dental trauma. Severe gum disease leads to mobile teeth and eventually to tooth loss. In addition, gum disease is strongly associated with many general health issues, including heart disease and lung issues.
Make an Appointment Today
If you have any of the symptoms we talked about in this article, do not hesitate to contact the emergency dentist in Upland and schedule an appointment today. Severe tooth decay and dental trauma can lead to tooth loss, abscess, and other general health-related consequences. Do not put off your visit to the dental office. We look forward to welcoming you to our clinic.