Unexplainable toothache, swollen gum, and exposed nerves are some of the most common dental emergencies. Preventive care and good dental hygiene are the best ways to protect your oral health. However, it’s essential to learn about other dental emergencies and how to treat them.
Unexplainable Toothache
Pain is not a good sign. It can be a sign of tooth decay or other conditions. While some toothaches can be managed without urgent treatment, others, such as swelling, require immediate attention. Do not use common painkillers such as aspirin because they can cause tissue damage. Instead, apply a cold compress on the cheeks and call a dentist for emergency treatment.
Swollen or Bleeding Gums
Contact your dental professional for a thorough exam if your gums appear to be bleeding. A dental exam will determine if your gum injury is minor or serious. Next, use hydrogen peroxide to clean your gums if they are bleeding. The solution should not be swallowed. Finally, apply a cold compress to the area affected if the bleeding is due to dental trauma or damage to the gum tissue.
A Swollen Jaw or Mouth
The jaw area may experience swelling in a variety of ways. It may be associated with pain or side effects. You may experience swelling on one or both sides of your jaw. Sometimes it can be more obvious under the ear or more visible in the cheeks. A dentist can determine the source of the swelling based on its location and whether there are any side effects.
Exposed Nerves
The cementum, which covers tooth roots, protects sensitive nerves. As a result, the nerves become vulnerable to the elements of the mouth, including bacteria, acids, plaque, and extreme temperatures. Gum disease is the main cause of exposed nerves. However, any activity that causes gum disease, such as vigorous tooth brushing, tobacco smoking, teeth grinding, and misalignment, can have similar results. Tooth cracks may also expose the nerves.
Knocked-Out Tooth
There are many reasons why teeth can become loosening or missing. Most often, teeth that have fallen out upon impact are the result of further trauma to the mouth. Both knocked out, and loose teeth need immediate attention. Loose teeth can be held in place by gently biting down until a dentist can see them.
Missing Filling
There are many reasons for missing fillings, such as advanced tooth decay. Injuries to the mouth could also knock off a cap or filling. It is also very common for patients to lose a crown or filling if by eating hard or sticky foods.
Broken Crown
It is important to treat a broken crown immediately. To avoid causing further damage, stick a piece of sugarless gum in the cavity. You should visit the dentist immediately.
Abscessed Tooth
A dental abscess is what you would call a dental emergency. An abscessed tooth is the build up of puss in or around the gumline. This is a potentially fatal condition. It can cause tooth sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures, leave you with a high fever, tender lymph nodes, persistent toothache, swelling of the gums, and bumps around the affected tooth. Saltwater rinses are recommended to be used several times daily until you are able to see a dentist.
Final Thoughts
Dental emergencies can happen, even though you can keep your dental hygiene routine under control. Knowing what constitutes a dental emergency means that you can quickly treat it to avoid further damage. Your emergency dentist will advise you on treating the problem and providing pain relief.
