Dental emergencies can be a frightening experience, especially if you're not sure what to do. While most dental emergencies are not life-threatening, they can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. And, if not treated properly, some dental emergencies can result in serious long-term problems.
So, what are the most common dental emergencies? And how can you prevent them? Keep reading to find out.
A toothache is a dental emergency not to be taken lightly. It is often an indicator of an underlying or deeper dental problem such as decay, inflammation, infection, or gum disease. Common causes of toothaches include cavities, cracked teeth, dental work becoming loose or falling out, trauma from a direct injury to the mouth or jaw, or impacted wisdom teeth.
Fortunately, there are several treatments for toothaches depending on the cause and severity. Your dentist can conduct a thorough evaluation and then take the necessary steps to reduce your pain and regain healthy oral function. Treatments may range from topical analgesics and antibiotics to root canal therapy and extractions if needed.
Accidents happen and sometimes a tooth is knocked out. Don't panic - if you take the right actions quickly, it may still be possible to save your tooth. Firstly, try to place the tooth back in its socket, as soon as possible after being lost. If you can't reinsert it then place the tooth in a cup of milk or a special storage container containing your own saliva which will help keep it alive for implantation by a dentist later.
See Dr. Girgis at Cedar Smiles Dentistry as soon as possible since time is crucial for successful reimplantation. Painkillers will help reduce discomfort until you can be seen by your dentist. With quick action, attentive care, and patience, there's still hope of saving your precious tooth!
If you find yourself in a situation where you have a broken tooth, Cedar Smiles Dentistry can help. Call our office as soon as possible for an emergency appointment. Depending on the extent of the damage, the dentist might do some simple fillings or use a dental crown or veneer to repair the crown of your tooth. If there has been considerable nerve damage, root canal therapy may be necessary. If at all possible, Cedar Smiles Dentistry will try to save your natural tooth. That's why it's so important to go to a dentist immediately after breaking a tooth to ensure you can take steps toward saving it!
An abscess is essentially an infection, and common symptoms include localized swelling, fever, soreness, tenderness of your gums, bleeding, an unpleasant taste in the mouth, and difficulty with eating or speaking. Receiving prompt treatment is essential in order to avoid more serious conditions like further infections of the jaw or other teeth. Cedar Smiles will provide you with the best available options for treating your abscessed tooth and ensuring that the infection does not spread.
If you're experiencing any of these dental emergencies, or if you're not sure what you're experiencing qualifies as a dental emergency, call Cedar Smiles Dentistry at (562) 925-8338 for advice. Our dentist in Bellflower is here to help you get out of pain and on the road to recovery.