3 Dental Emergencies Where You Need To Find a Dentist - Gledhill Dental Kennewick Washington
While some may view dental injury or pain as a cosmetic issue, it is important to find a dentist right away for evaluation and treatment. Damage to teeth and gums can lead to serious complications when left untreated, from dangerous infections to tooth and bone loss. Some dental emergencies can do more than impair a beautiful smile; Without immediate care, they can lead to serious health problems.
Any time a patient experiences a new, sudden, or worsening dental issue, that person should call a local dental office to discuss symptoms. Sometimes, it is only necessary to schedule an appointment at the earliest convenience. However, certain situations require urgent attention and the patient should find a dentist right away.
Injury or trauma resulting in tooth loss requires an immediate visit with a dentist. With proper care and prompt treatment, it is often possible to save the damaged tooth. Patients should try to reinsert a knocked-out tooth at the root and apply pressure to keep it in place. Otherwise, the tooth or tooth fragments should be stored between the patient's gums and cheek or in a glass of milk en route to the office. This helps keep the tooth moist until a dentist can make the necessary repairs. Both permanent teeth and baby teeth require the same emergency treatment in these situations.
Any type of infection should be taken very seriously. If left untreated, an infection can make its way into the bloodstream and cause a host of dangerous complications, including sepsis. Dental patients who experience the signs of potential infection should seek care right away. These include:
Excessive or unexplained bleeding
Oozing or drainage
Formation of an abscess or small bubble along the gums
While some infections are minor and only require medication or a simple draining procedure, more serious situations may require a tooth extraction or extensive dental work. A quick call to the office to discuss symptoms can help determine whether or not these issues point to a possible infection.
When a forceful impact or prolonged decay results in damage to a tooth, patients can experience painful and unsightly complications. If a tooth becomes visibly cracked or chipped as a result, a trip to the dentist is in order. In these situations, a dentist will often check to ensure no other damage has occurred beneath the surface of the affected tooth and gum area. Prompt repairs may be necessary to prevent bacteria from entering through the cracks and infecting the pulp or root. Crowns, root canals, or dental bonding may be needed for serious injuries, while minor damage may not require any additional treatment.
Patients who experience any type of dental emergency should find a dentist for evaluation right away. Failure to receive prompt dental care could have devastating consequences with severe damage to teeth and gums. By acting quickly in these situations, patients can enjoy better oral and overall health.
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