Dental emergencies can be scary and painful, so it’s important to know where to turn when the unexpected happens. At Clarkson Dental Group, we are here when you need us, offering emergency dentistry services to our Chesterfield patients. So, what constitutes a dental emergency? Understanding the difference between a dental concern that can wait and an emergency dental situation that needs immediate attention may help alleviate some unnecessary stress.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any dental issue that requires immediate treatment to save a tooth, eliminate pain, or stop you from bleeding.
Eight Signs You Need Emergency Dental Services
If you are unsure whether you need emergency dental services or whether your treatment can wait, consider the following list of dental emergencies that require immediate assistance:
1. Loose or knocked-out tooth – If you have a loose tooth or your tooth has been completely knocked out, you need to take quick action and call our dental office immediately. The sooner you see a dentist, the better chance your tooth can be saved.
2. Severe toothache – If you are experiencing a toothache, you shouldn’t ignore it. Tooth pain is your body’s way of letting you know something is wrong, so call us right away.
3. Swollen or bleeding gums – If your gums are bleeding a little when you brush or floss, that is not a dental emergency. However, if you have excessive bleeding, especially if it is accompanied by swelling and pain, you need to seek immediate dental treatment.
4. Swollen mouth or jaw – If your jaw is swollen for no apparent reason, you could have an infection, so it’s best to call our dental office as soon as possible.
5. Signs of an abscessed tooth – An abscessed tooth is a severe infection that could be life-threatening. Symptoms of an abscessed tooth include fever, tooth pain and sensitivity, facial swelling, and a pimple on your gums.
6. Lost filling – If you have lost a filling, your tooth is at risk of breakage, or your nerves could be exposed, so you should call us for an emergency appointment.
7. An object lodged in your teeth – If you have something stuck between your teeth, but brushing and flossing can’t dislodge it, call us for advice on your next steps.
8. Broken dental restoration – If you break or lose a dental crown, your tooth could be easily damaged, so to avoid dental issues, you should call our office immediately.
Experiencing a Dental Emergency in Chesterfield?
If so, Clarkson Dental Group is here for you! We want to help you maintain the best oral health possible, so contact our dental team if you or a loved one is experiencing a dental emergency. You can reach us at (636) 537-0065.