What Are the Different Types of Dental Emergencies?

Dental emergencies occur unexpectedly and without warning. As a result, they may cause a great deal of discomfort and can even be dangerous to your oral health. Listed below are some of the most common types of dental emergencies:

Knocked Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth is one of the more urgent types of dental emergencies. If you’ve lost a tooth, first call your dentist right away. In the meantime, rinse the tooth off gently with water if needed and store it in a container with a lid or milk. Apply a cold compress to the mouth to keep the swelling down while you prepare to see the dentist. The sooner you get to the dentist, the better your chances of saving the tooth. However, if the tooth is chipped or damaged and can’t be saved, the doctor can discuss options for tooth replacement with you.

Chipped or Cracked Tooth

If you’ve experienced a cracked, chipped, or avulsed tooth, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. A dental emergency like a chipped or broken tooth can be painful and may cause an infection if not addressed immediately. Your dentist can repair your tooth with a procedure called cosmetic bonding. Cosmetic bonding is a cosmetic dentistry procedure meant to restore a tooth that is broken, chipped, stained, discolored, or misshaped. The procedure can be completed in just one visit to your dental office. During the procedure, composite resin will be applied to the affected tooth and then cured under a special light to harden. Once hardened, the tooth will be shaped by the dentist and polished so that it blends in with your smile.

Broken or Fractured Tooth

A broken or fractured tooth can be a serious dental emergency, especially if the fracture compromises the pulp of the tooth. Once a tooth is broken, it may not hurt to eat or drink right away, but it’s best to avoid doing so until we can examine the damage and provide proper treatment. In the meantime, you can try taking an over-the-counter pain reliever and applying a cold compress to the mouth to reduce swelling and pain. If the pulp has been damaged or infected, we may need to place a crown on the tooth to protect it from further damage and infection.

Severe Toothache

A toothache is a severe pain in the teeth and/or gums that are often caused by cavities, infections, fractures, or gum disease. If left untreated, the toothache will only get worse and could lead to more serious issues, including tooth loss. If you are experiencing a severe toothache, be sure to contact your dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can use a cold compress on the side that is in pain to reduce swelling and manage the pain. You should also avoid eating and drinking until your appointment. This will help to prevent irritation of the sensitive tissue in your mouth.

Visit Next Level Dental at 693 President Pl #101, Smyrna, TN 37167, to learn more about our dental services. Contact us at (615) 459-6354 or schedule an appointment online for any queries related to dental emergencies.