Understanding Dental Emergencies: What Needs Immediate Care?

While you may do your best at brushing and flossing every day, life can have ways to surprise you. One less-appealing way it does is through a dental emergency. These situations can be stressful and a headache to deal with. However, the discomfort you feel from them can range from minor to major, so when should you call your dentist about them? Here’s a guide to help you get the care you deserve.

What is Considered an Urgent Dental Emergency?

There are many scenarios that are considered a dental emergency, but some require you to be seen the same day to avoid any further harm from happening. These are a couple that you should know:

• Severe discomfort often happens from an infected tooth. This means there are bacteria attacking the inner structures, but this needs to be seen by a dentist right away. The problem can spread to nearby teeth and gums, possibly causing tooth loss when left untreated.
• A loose or knocked-out tooth can be the result of an accident or a facial blow. You may be worried about the outcome for this, but it’s crucial you visit a dental practice within an hour to give yourself the best shot at saving it.
• Dental damage from biting into hard food or anything else needs to be fixed as soon as possible. The inner structures may be exposed, allowing bacteria to attack them and cause problems.
• A dental abscess can happen from a tooth infection, but this can manifest as a pimple-like bump on your gums. Not only may it be painful, but a fever and swelling often follow suit.

What Isn’t Generally an Urgent Dental Emergency?

That being said, some symptoms and dental emergencies may not be as urgent as the ones above. Minor discomfort, stuck food, and fallen veneers or restorations are several conditions that may not be too intense, so your dentist will likely see you in the near future instead of immediately. While you may not get in the same day, it’s still important you get them treated as soon as possible since they can cause serious complications when left to their own devices.

So, Should I Call My Dentist?

In the end, if you have any worries or concerns about the dental emergency you’re experiencing, you should call your dentist. By talking to them on the phone, they can give you advice on what to do in the moment to get you relief. It’s better to be safe than sorry; that way, you can get treatment if you need it and get back to a problem-free smile you deserve.

About the Author

Dr. Stephen Wardlaw earned his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry. He has well over a decade of experience helping the Arlington community with their oral healthcare. Dr. Wardlaw is here for you during your dental emergencies, offering same-day visits to get you the treatment you need to feel new once again. If you are in need of urgent dental care, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling (817) 572-5115.