How to Handle Common Types of Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies can be frightening and can have long-term effects. Dental issues range from acute toothache to severe dental infection and saving a lost tooth. These problems often arise because of untreated dental issues. If left untreated, these problems can worsen and become infected or painful. Sometimes, dental issues are the result of an unexpected trauma such as falling. Regardless of the cause, it's important to have your dental needs met.

While many people can handle minor toothaches at home, if you notice any of these conditions, it's best to seek dental attention right away. Chipped or cracked teeth are often easy to notice, but can also be difficult to treat. If you notice swelling around a tooth, apply cold compresses to reduce pain. If the swelling is deep, you may have an infection that needs immediate medical attention. In such a case, you'll want to visit the dentist as soon as possible.

Cracked or chipped teeth are another common type of dental emergency. Chipped teeth can occur from biting down on a hard object too quickly. Broken teeth can also result from toothwork that isn't properly fitted to your bite pattern. Teeth grinding is also a common cause of cracked or chipped teeth. Emergency dental treatment is needed in these cases. In the meantime, you can rinse your mouth with warm water and keep the fragments of the tooth for examination. Apply a cold compress to help relieve pain and discomfort.

Bleeding is another common type of dental emergency. While minor bleeding after a tooth extraction is normal, prolonged bleeding can be a sign of a dental emergency. Be sure to consult your dentist for further instructions if bleeding persists for more than a few hours. If you've been chewing on something, you should place it in a clean glass of milk or water to prevent an infection. You can also apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

Tooth pain, or an infection, should be treated immediately. In severe cases, this is a sign of a tooth abscess. Untreated, tooth abscesses can spread and cause life-threatening conditions. To determine whether the pain is related to a tooth infection, visit the Lovett Dental Humble clinic. Flossing your teeth should help, as well. Until then, you can call for an emergency dental appointment and rinse with salt water.

Broken or dislodged teeth are another common type of dental emergency. A dislodged tooth is typically easily reattached with a dental crown. If the tooth has been knocked out of its socket, a dentist should be consulted as soon as possible. The dentist will be able to assess the extent of damage to your dentition. If you're not sure whether a tooth has fractured, a cold compress may help.