Dental Emergency
Moorestown, NJ
Being faced with an emergency can be frightening. Dental emergencies are no different.
Even minor dental injuries, ones that you might not think are a big deal, should be taken care of quickly and properly.
However, when faced with a dental emergency, you might not know what to do. Optimum Oral Surgery Group can help to point you in the right direction.
Painful Teeth
Tooth pain is often an indication of an infection. It can also be a sign that there is something simply stuck between your teeth.
First, brush and floss your teeth gently and thoroughly. If nothing comes out, your pain persists, and you notice other symptoms of an infection, then you should schedule an appointment immediately.
With a thorough oral exam, including digital images, we can diagnose an infection, and provide you with the treatment you need to alleviate pain and restore your oral health.
Tooth Damage
The teeth are the strongest substance in the human body. Despite their strength, they can still be subject to chips or fractures.
Even minor damage should be evaluated immediately. It might not seem serious at the time, but even minor damage can develop into something more serious over time.
Most chips and fractures are relatively painless, but if the root the damage extends into the root, it can be quite painful.
The severity of your tooth damage will play a significant role in determining your treatment. Many types of chips and fractures can be treated with a crown.
In more serious cases, the affected tooth may need to be extracted and replaced.
Partially Dislodged Teeth
Some injuries can result in teeth that are knocked deeper into the socket or partially knocked out.
In either situation, it is important that you do not attempt to reset the tooth by yourself.
Cold compresses and over the counter pain relievers can help you to manage discomfort until your appointment.
Once in the office, we can reset the tooth and secure it with a splint so that it can stabilize in your jaw. If the tooth does not heal, a root canal may be required.
Avulsed Teeth
Some types of dental trauma can result in the avulsion of a tooth. This is when a tooth is completely knocked out of your mouth. In these situations, it is possible to replant the tooth.
First, find the tooth and clean it off under running water. Be careful not to touch the root end. Store the tooth in a jar of milk or salt water until your appointment.
In many cases, we can replant the tooth and secure it with a splint. If the tooth cannot be saved, we can present you with options for tooth replacement.
What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any dental problem that necessitates immediate treatment to prevent further damage or loss of teeth.
While some dental issues can wait for a regular appointment, certain conditions require immediate treatment.
Severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, and sudden loss of teeth are all considered dental emergencies.
In addition to severe pain and bleeding, knocked-out teeth, adults having loose teeth, or severe infection of the gum and tooth are also considered dental emergencies.
However, any dental problem that can wait for a regular appointment, such as a lost crown or minor toothache, that does not show signs of a deeper problem like infection or swelling in the mouth is not considered a dental emergency.
Is a Cavity a Dental Emergency?
If a cavity is neglected and left untreated, it can progress and lead to further oral health complications, such as tooth decay or infection.
Therefore, it is important to address cavities as soon as they are detected. However, in terms of urgency, a cavity may not always be considered a dental emergency.
If the affected tooth does not cause severe pain or discomfort, it can typically be scheduled for a routine dental appointment.
On the other hand, if a cavity is causing extreme pain or affecting daily functioning, it should be treated as a dental emergency.
It is always best to err on the side of caution and consult us to determine the course of action.
Is a Dental Abscess an Emergency?
A dental abscess is a pocket of infection in the teeth or gums. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the mouth and body. For this reason, it is considered an emergency.
A dental abscess includes severe toothache, fever, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling in the face or gums, and visible pus drainage.
However, with prompt treatment, a dental abscess does not have to be a life-threatening emergency.
Is a Chipped Tooth a Dental Emergency?
A chipped tooth is a common dental injury due to biting down on hard objects, acid erosion, or trauma. While it may not seem like a big deal, a chipped tooth can lead to more serious dental problems if it's not treated promptly. If the tooth is left untreated, the exposed edge of the tooth can become irritated and inflamed, causing pain and making it difficult to eat or drink.
In addition, the exposed edge of the tooth can also be more susceptible to infections. As a result, a chipped tooth should be considered a dental emergency and treated as soon as possible.
Do I Have to Schedule a Dental Emergency Appointment?
When experiencing a dental emergency, scheduling an emergency appointment is the best course of action.
If you are unsure if your dental issue qualifies as a dental emergency, do not hesitate to call us here at Optimum Oral Surgery Group at (856) 437-4432 for assistance. |
