Do you know the difference between a simple dental issue and a serious dental emergency that needs immediate care? Most of us think we do, but sometimes what seems common may not be so simple. Let’s dig a little deeper and discover how to best handle a dental emergency.
A Really Painful Toothache
Only you can determine if the toothache is really painful. Sometimes a toothache can be a mild ache and you know you can wait a few days to see if it improves with flossing and gentle care.
A really painful toothache is one that requires immediate relief. Use a cold compress on the cheek to help with pain and keep down any swelling. If there is swelling, it could be an infection or a cavity. In either case, make an emergency appointment with Dr. Robinette in Hickory, NC.
Chipped Or Broken Tooth
No negotiation with this one. Call the emergency dentist right away. If you can keep the chip, put it in a small glass of mild and take it with you. Rinse with warm water and apply gauze if there is bleeding.
Knocked Out Tooth From A Trauma
If you can find the whole tooth, place it into a glass of milk. Get some sugarless gum and place it in the open hole. Rinse with warm water. Call Dr. Robinette immediately and explain the situation.
Bleeding Gums
A little blood after you brush and floss too hard is nothing to worry about if it happens occasionally. Excess blood can indicate many things. If there is swelling and pain, make an immediate appointment.
Lost Filling Or Crown
A lost filling or crown exposes sensitive nerves and dental pulp which can lead to an infection. Call Dr. Robinette and get this repaired as soon as possible.
Abscess Or Infection
This can become a serious issue if not handled promptly. An abscessed tooth looks like a pocket of pus near a tooth, a tooth root, or on the gums. This infection can begin in the tooth but can quickly spread outward to the face, neck, or ears.
Broken Braces And Wires
Sometimes the metal wires of braces can split out and affect your inner cheek, gums, or tongue. Don’t wait to see an emergency dentist to have this repaired.
Additional Signs Of A Dental Emergency
- Fever
- Severe pain when biting
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
- Red or bloody gums
- Foul smelling discharge or pus
It is always best to err on the side of caution. It’s better to have the dentist tell you how to care for the issue at home, than to not secure an appointment allowing the problem to get worse.
Contact Dr. Robinette at 828-267-0651 if you think you are having a dental emergency.