It’s easy to see how tooth decay, periodontal disease, or a chipped tooth begins. However, some dental emergencies may be a surprise to you. Misaligned or loose teeth, for instance, are often due to untreated tooth decay or gum disease. Other dental emergencies may have resulted from an injury, have a genetic component, or can be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
Regardless of the cause, many dental emergencies could affect you, including:
Toothache
Typically, dental pain is an indication that there is a buildup of plaque, which can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, or both. If left untreated, these conditions can eventually lead to tooth loss. Sharp and sudden pain in the tooth may not be a dental emergency. However, if the pain persists or is accompanied by swelling, fever, or a change in the color of the gum surrounding the tooth, seek immediate assistance.
Chipped Tooth
A dentist can repair Tiny chips, whereas larger chips may require a crown. If you can see the tooth’s pulp through the chip, or the chip causes pain, bleeding, or relief from biting pressure, see a dentist as soon as possible.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If you’ve lost a tooth, you may be able to push it back into place by biting on a washcloth or some gauze. If not, see your dentist immediately if the tooth is loose but not visible.
Lost Fillings
If you’ve lost a filling, you may notice a change in how food tastes. Contact your dentist. If you lose a dental crown, see your dentist immediately. A crown is usually made to prevent further decay, but if a tooth is damaged beyond repair, the crown would have to be removed, and a new crown will be needed.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
All dental emergencies can be prevented. Use a soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup and cavities for toothache and chipped teeth. Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings, and have your teeth regularly checked for cavities and potential problems, such as tooth decay or gum disease.
You can prevent lost fillings or missing teeth by taking good care of your teeth. You can avoid knocked-out teeth by wearing a mouthguard or riding a bike or motorcycle when participating in contact sports.
The Importance of Proper Dental Hygiene
Dental problems can lead to tooth loss, negatively impacting your ability to chew and experience taste. Your ability to speak clearly may also be compromised. If you miss teeth, you may feel self-conscious when you smile or speak.
If you’re missing even one tooth, it’s essential to see a dentist. If decay or gum disease affects your remaining teeth prematurely, you may need to have many teeth removed. The sooner these are addressed, the better the chance they can be salvaged.
The Bottom Line
Dental emergencies can be embarrassing and painful, but the earlier you seek dental care, the better the outcome may be. If you are in a situation requiring immediate dental care, seek help from a professional, such as a dentist or emergency dentist.
It may be easy to put dental appointments on the back burner with so many things to worry about. However, if you have any of the dental emergencies listed above, it’s essential to seek care as soon as possible.
If you require reliable dental services, we can help you. Chelmsford Dental Specialists Group is well-known as the leading family dentist in Central Massachusetts. We are dedicated and committed to helping patients improve and maintain their oral health. You can count on us to provide the best service. Contact us today to learn and get started.
