4 Signs You Need To See An Emergency Dentist

14 June 2017
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

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Have you ever had to seek emergency dental care? Most people are fortunate enough to never be in this situation, but it never hurts to be prepared in case the need arises. By recognizing when you need to see and emergency dentist, you can ensure you receive the prompt care you need. This, in turn, could prevent you from prolonged pain and further complications that could arise from waiting to seek treatment.

You've Lost an Adult Tooth

Any time an adult tooth is knocked out, this should be considered a dental emergency. After all, did you know that your dentist may be able to save your tooth by putting it back into the socket if you act quickly enough? Even if you cannot find the tooth that has been knocked out, it's in your best interest to see an emergency dentist so as to avoid dry socket, an infection, or other serious dental problems that could otherwise arise.

You've Cracked or Chipped a Tooth

Cracking or chipping a tooth also warrants a trip to the emergency dentist. This remains true whether or not the chip/crack is painful. However, it is especially important to seek dental care right away if you are experiencing pain and/or the tooth is bleeding. If left untreated, food, bacteria, and other particles can get into the tooth and cause decay, infection, or other painful problems.

You've Lost a Large Filling

This can be tricky because losing a small filling typically will not warrant a trip to the emergency dentist. However, the loss of a larger filling may because the chances of decay reaching the nerve of the tooth (and thus requiring a root canal) is much higher when you are dealing with a cavity that was large to begin with. As a general rule, if you have lost a filling and are experiencing pain or sensitivity, it will be in your best interest to seek emergency dental services. If there is no pain or discomfort, treatment can probably wait a day or two.

You Have Severe Tooth Pain

Any time you have tooth pain that is severe enough to keep you from eating, drinking, and/or sleeping, it's time to see an emergency dentist. This is especially important if your pain is accompanied by a fever, as this could be a sign of an infection known as an abscess. 

By knowing when to see an emergency dentist, you can be prepared in the event that you experience any of these common dental issues! Contact a center like TLC Dental Center to learn more.