Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them, and knowing when to seek help is crucial for preventing long-term damage or discomfort. Here are some common reasons why you might need to visit an emergency dentist:
1. Severe Toothache
A persistent or intense toothache can be a sign of an underlying problem, such as tooth decay, an infection, or gum disease. If over-the-counter pain relievers aren’t helping, it’s essential to seek emergency dental care. An emergency dentist can identify the root cause and provide relief quickly.
2. Broken or Chipped Tooth
Accidents, injuries, or biting into something hard can cause a tooth to break or chip. If the damage is severe or painful, you should contact an emergency dentist immediately. They may be able to restore the tooth with a crown or filling, and in some cases, prevent further complications.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)
A tooth that has been completely knocked out requires immediate attention. If you act quickly, the tooth can sometimes be saved and reinserted. It’s important to keep the tooth moist (either in milk or saliva) and see an emergency dentist as soon as possible for the best chance of reattachment.
4. Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a serious infection that can form at the root of a tooth or in the gums. It often causes swelling, intense pain, and fever. Left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, making it a potentially life-threatening condition. Emergency dental care is essential to drain the abscess and treat the infection.
5. Lost or Damaged Dental Work
Losing a filling, crown, or dental bridge can expose sensitive areas of your teeth and lead to pain or further damage. If this happens, you should see an emergency dentist to repair or replace the dental work before the issue worsens.
6. Swelling or Bleeding in the Mouth
Unexplained swelling or bleeding, especially after an injury or surgery, can indicate a serious issue. Whether it’s due to trauma, an infection, or gum disease, prolonged bleeding or swelling requires emergency dental care to prevent complications.
7. Loose or Misaligned Teeth
If you experience sudden movement or looseness in your teeth, especially following an accident, it could signal damage to the jaw or tooth structure. An emergency dentist can assess the situation, stabilise the teeth, and prevent permanent damage.
8. Jaw Pain or Injury
If you suffer a blow to the face or jaw and experience pain, difficulty chewing, or swelling, you may have a fractured jaw or other serious dental issues. Emergency dental care can provide an evaluation and necessary treatment, such as stabilisation or surgery.
9. Severe Gum Pain
Severe gum pain, particularly when accompanied by swelling or pus, could indicate an infection like gingivitis or periodontitis. An emergency dentist can treat the infection and provide pain relief, preventing further damage to your teeth and gums.
10. Foreign Objects Stuck Between Teeth
Sometimes, food or other objects can become lodged between your teeth and cause pain or irritation. If you can’t remove the object with dental floss, an emergency dentist can safely extract it without causing damage to your teeth or gums.
When to Seek Help
Dental issues can quickly escalate, so it’s important to know when to seek emergency care. If you experience any of the issues listed above, don’t wait for them to resolve on their own—contact an emergency dentist immediately for fast, professional treatment.
Contact Us
If you’re dealing with a dental emergency, contact London Road Dental Practice. Our team is here to provide the immediate care you need to relieve pain, prevent further damage, and restore your oral health.