Common Types of Dental Emergencies

While proper dental care is the best way to maintain optimal oral health, emergencies occur. A chipped tooth, gum disease, and tooth decay are common dental emergencies. You must know how to distinguish dental emergencies and what to do when they strike. You can prevent long-term damage to your teeth if you apply the right first aid immediately.

Here are some common types of dental emergencies.

Toothaches

When it comes to oral health, pain is never a good sign. It could be a sign of numerous conditions, including tooth decay. Some toothaches are controllable without emergency interventions.

However, you may need emergency treatment if you notice signs like swelling. Avoid taking painkillers, as they can burn the gum tissue. Instead, use a cold compress on your cheek as you wait for emergency treatment.

Lost Crowns or Fillings

Fillings and crowns help restore your damaged teeth to their optimal function and appearance. You need emergency dental treatment to avoid reinfection or damage when they break.

Place a little sugarless gum into the affected area tip while waiting for emergency care. However, do not attempt fixing the tooth yourself. You may cause more damage. You can also bring the restoration to your dentist for refitting or reapplication.

Broken or Chipped Teeth

You may break or chip your tooth when you bite down on something too hard. Not only does this ruin your smile, but a broken tooth can also be excruciatingly painful. If this is the case, apply gauze to the affected area to stop the bleeding. Then place a cold compress on your face near the affected tooth. It helps alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Seek emergency care from your dentist immediately.

Abscess

Infections in your mouth can be serious. It is especially true if the infection occurs in the space between your teeth and gum or near the root. Left untreated, they can spread to adjacent gum tissue and teeth. An abscess is a pimple-like swollen area on your gums that is painful. If you have an abscess, contact your dentist at Midtown Dental Center immediately to avoid worse oral issues.

Faulty Orthodontics

Braces are typically strong and can withstand a lot of pressure. They can endure the wear and tear involved in your routine, such as eating or chewing. However, sometimes they can stick out or break, poking your gums and cheeks.

It can result in pain or discomfort. It is also detrimental to straightening or aligning your teeth. If this is the case, try placing the broken wire back in place. Next, schedule an emergency dental appointment to fix the issue.

Bleeding and Pain Following a Tooth Extraction

Bleeding and pain are expected following a tooth extraction. However, it may be time to call your dentist if the bleeding and pain do not stop after a considerable time. Before visiting your dentist, you can place a gauze over the affected area and bite down on it. Avoid eating, drinking, rinsing, smoking, sucking, and spitting.

For dental emergencies, visit Midtown Dental Center at our Atlanta, Georgia office. Call (404) 874-0800 to schedule an appointment today.