When your teeth develop an issue, you will think of a quick visit to the dentist. But sometimes, oral problems occur outside the regular working hours. An emergency dentist can prove helpful in such a situation. However, that does not mean every dental issue requires urgent attention. Minor problems can wait for your next dental appointment. So, how can you tell which issues require emergency services? This article looks at the top indications that you need the services of an emergency dentist.
1. Your Tooth Is Cracked or Chipped
Trauma to the mouth mainly occurs in children and people who play high contact sports, such as netball and football. Additionally, you can experience mouth trauma after an accident. Impact on your mouth can lead to teeth cracking or chipping, and it is often accompanied by pain. If untreated, such damages can lead to other complications. For example, an untreated crack can cause your teeth to split. Also, a chipped tooth is prone to infection and discolouration. Therefore, you should visit your emergency dentist immediately you realise your tooth is chipped or cracked.
2. Your Teeth Are Severely Painful
More than half of dental emergencies are caused by abscesses and toothaches. If your toothache is mild, over-the-counter pain killers might relieve the pain. However, if the toothaches occur frequently and for long periods, you could have a more serious issue, such as periodontal disease. The best option, therefore, is to seek the help of an emergency dentist for treatment. They will give you medication for the pain and conduct necessary examinations to determine the underlying problem.
3. Your Teeth Show Signs of Abscesses
An abscess is an infection in the tooth root that is extremely painful. These infections mostly develop from untreated cavities. Sometimes, they arise from chipped or cracked teeth. This bacterial infection manifests in pockets of pus on the gum. The primary symptom is tooth sensitivity to hot or cold things. Other symptoms of abscesses are constant toothaches, swollen face, tender neck lymph nodes and bumps on your gums. If the condition is not treated in good time, it can spread to other parts of the mouth and body. So, visit an emergency dentist as soon as you see signs of dental abscesses.
These are some of the reasons you might need emergency dental services. Find a reliable and trustworthy emergency dentist you are comfortable around to ensure you get the best services possible.
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