Some people fear visiting dentists because of the equipment, the environment, and the pain associated with a dental procedure. However, some instances call for immediate attention, whether you’re phobic or not.
Failing to visit a dentist during an emergency increases the risk of further complications. The condition might develop into a more severe infection that’s painful and costly to treat. In some cases, you might lose teeth, interfering with related functions such as chewing and speech.
The following are some top signs that you need emergency dental care.
Bleeding gums
Healthy gums don’t bleed unless subjected to aggressive brushing, flossing, or severe impact. If you see blood when brushing or chewing some foods, it’s time to visit a dentist.
Bleeding is a sign of gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. Other symptoms include aching and swollen gums. You might also notice an unpleasant smell when flossing.
Gum disease is treatable at its earlier stages. However, if ignored, it can cause severe damage to your gums, teeth, and jawline. Therefore, don’t postpone your dental appointment if you notice any of the abovementioned indicators!
Growths and Canker Sores
It’s advisable to visit your dentist whenever you notice a growth inside your mouth, whether painful or not. A continuous growth or canker sore is usually a sign of oral cancer.
Your dentist will perform the necessary tests to ascertain whether the tumor is cancerous. If the results are positive, you can start your treatment right away and increase the chances of remission. Remember that most cancers are treatable if detected early.
Unexpected Tooth Loss
You can lose your teeth unexpectedly due to an accident. If this happens, do not touch the root; only touch the crown if your tooth gets knocked out. If it’s still intact, try to reposition it into its socket. Otherwise, please place it in a container with milk until you reach a dental clinic. This keeps the tooth alive.
For bleeding, compress a cold, wet and sterile cloth until you get medical care.
Dental Abscesses
Dental abscesses cause severe pain. They’re usually signs of extensive bacterial infection and advanced gum disease. Abscesses manifest in several ways, including fever, bad taste in the mouth, and pus.
If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, you need emergency dental care. The doctor will perform surgery so that the infection doesn’t metastasize to other parts. However, invasive procedures are avoidable if you visit your dentists for routine check-ups before extensive inflammation.
Recurrent Headaches
Most people associate headaches with fatigue, stress, or sicknesses. However, recurrent headaches could be an indicator of an underlying oral complication.
Because your jaw is connected to your skull, you’re likely to experience pain if the former has complications. For example, teeth grinding can cause recurrent headaches. The most common signs of this involuntary condition are increased oral sensitivity and worn-out enamels.
Soft Tissue Injury
A severe impact can cause soft tissue injuries inside your mouth, such as cuts and bites. Leaving such wounds exposed increases your susceptibility to infections.
When you get a soft tissue injury, clean the affected area with warm water. Apply a cold compress to stop bleeding and seek emergency dental care.
Final Words
If you have the symptoms discussed above, it’s vital to call your dentist immediately. During the call, explain your symptoms in detail. Conduct any first aid measures you can before reaching the hospital, such as preserving a knocked-out tooth and stopping bleeding.
Many clinics like Lux Dental Clinic offer same-day appointments for unexpected dental emergencies. Dental professionals have the experience and training necessary to identify the root cause of pain and provide qualified treatment options for relieving it.
While accidents are inevitable, you can lower the risk of most dental complications by observing proper oral care habits. Brush and floss regularly, check what you eat and drink, and visit your dentist every six months.