What to Do When a Dental Emergency Occurs

Typically, your dentist will recommend that you visit the office twice a year for a cleaning and examination. This preventative care helps identify any issues in the teeth, mouth, or gums. However, there may be times when you have a dental emergency that can’t wait until your next checkup.

Even though the thought of having a dental emergency isn’t pleasant, it is important to know what to look for and what to do if one occurs. Keep reading to learn more about dental emergencies and appropriate actions to take.

What is a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is considered to be any dental problem that requires immediate treatment to stop bleeding associated with a tooth or your gums, alleviate severe pain, or save a tooth that has been damaged or knocked out. Dental emergencies can also involve severe infections that need immediate treatment so they won’t spread.

There are several types of urgent dental issues that should not be ignored. If left untreated, they could become worse and cause lasting damage to your teeth, mouth, or gums. This is why they are considered dental emergencies. 

Examples of dental emergencies and symptoms to look for include:

• Damaged teeth, including a cracked or broken tooth
• Teeth that have been completely knocked out of your mouth
• Trauma that exposes a tooth’s internal nerve chamber
• Pain in your tooth or jaw
• Swelling in the mouth or gums that may or may not be accompanied by a fever
• Unexplained patches or sores on the lips, mouth, or gums

What should I do if I’m experiencing a dental emergency?

If you have any of the symptoms or indicators of an urgent dental problem, you should always call your dentist. A dental professional will listen to your symptoms and determine how quickly you need a scheduled appointment.

Usually, you’ll be able to visit your dentist’s office within 24 hours to receive the necessary care that will help resolve your dental emergency.

When you call, you’ll likely receive recommendations for temporary care of your teeth, mouth, or gums. For example, your dentist can suggest what to do with a tooth that has been completely knocked out. The dentist might also recommend that you take certain over-the-counter pain relievers or apply ice packs to relieve pain.

Contact Bliss Dental

If you or a loved one is experiencing a dental emergency, don’t wait to contact Bliss Dental to make an appointment and speak to a dental professional. We are here to help when you are most in need of reassurance and care.