A Chicago emergency dentist is there to help you when you experience a dental emergency. However, many people are unsure what exactly a dental emergency is, and whether something is a dental emergency or whether something can wait until your regular dental professional can see you. It is important to educate yourself on what a dental emergency is and what is not, so you can get the right level of care if you are experiencing a dental problem. Here are a few of the signs that you may need to visit an emergency dentist.
Severe Tooth Pain
If you’re experiencing intense and persistent tooth pain, it clearly indicates something is wrong. Various dental issues, such as an abscessed tooth, a cracked tooth, or an advanced cavity, can all cause severe toothaches. Ignoring the pain can lead to further infection or damage. If you have tried at-home dental remedies, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, and cannot decrease the pain, it is time to call a professional. An emergency dentist can diagnose the underlying cause and provide the necessary treatment to relieve your pain and address the issue.
Knocked-Out Or Loose Tooth
Accidents and injuries can result in a knocked-out or loose tooth. If you or a loved one experiences this, acting quickly is crucial. For a knocked-out tooth, gently rinse it off, being careful not to remove any attached tissue. Try to reinsert the tooth back into the socket, if possible. If that’s not feasible, place it in a container with milk or saliva to keep it moist, and head to the emergency dentist immediately. Time is of the essence when it comes to saving a knocked-out tooth. Similarly, if you have a loose tooth, it may indicate an underlying dental issue or trauma that requires urgent attention.
Facial Swelling Or Oral Infections
Swelling in the face, particularly around the mouth, can signify an oral infection or dental abscess. Oral infections can cause severe pain, difficulty swallowing, and even fever. If you notice facial swelling or experience these symptoms, it’s important to seek immediate dental care. Oral infections can spread rapidly and potentially lead to serious health complications if left untreated. An emergency dentist can assess the situation, prescribe antibiotics if necessary, and provide appropriate treatment to address the infection.
Excessive Bleeding Or Trauma To The Mouth
Any trauma to the mouth that causes excessive bleeding should be considered a dental emergency. This includes injuries from accidents, falls, or sports-related incidents. If you’re experiencing significant bleeding that doesn’t subside after applying pressure, visiting an emergency dentist is crucial. They will evaluate the extent of the injury, control the bleeding, and determine the best course of action to repair any damage to the teeth, gums, or oral tissues.
Damaged Dental Restorations
If dental restorations such as crowns, fillings, or bridges become damaged or dislodged, it’s important to seek immediate dental care. Damaged restorations can expose the underlying tooth structure, leaving it vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, or further damage. An emergency dentist can assess the situation, repair or replace the restoration, and ensure the affected tooth is properly protected.
If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, knocked a tooth loose or out, are having severe facial swelling potentially caused by a dental infection, have excessive bleeding in your mouth, or have damaged dental restorations, you are experiencing a dental emergency and need to be treated by a Chicago emergency dentist. Reach out to your dentist or your dental insurance company to find a local emergency dentist in your area.
