If you experience damage to your gums, bones, or a sudden infection of your tooth, it should not be ignored. These may be critical issues that are considered dental emergencies. Dental emergencies can happen quickly and often unexpectedly. If you have a dental emergency, the best thing to do is get to an emergency dentist in Edmonton. Here are some tips on what to do when you are in a dental emergency.
Types of Dental Emergencies and What to do When They Occur
Toothaches
A toothache should be taken seriously, but it may not require immediate dental treatment. A toothache can be the first sign of a bigger dental problem, and if ignored, could lead to more serious problems down the line. If you have a toothache, you can call a dental clinic in Edmonton, and they will advise you on whether emergency dental care is needed. To help ease the pain, you can apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek as well as take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen.
Knocked-Out Tooth
Having a knocked-out tooth can be very scary and painful. This is a dental emergency, and you should get to an emergency dentist near you as soon as possible. In the meantime, you may be able to protect your tooth by reinserting it into the socket. When you lift your tooth, make sure to only touch the crown of your tooth. After putting your tooth back in its socket, bite down on a clean paper towel for 15 to 20 minutes while you are on your way to the emergency dentist. If you cannot get your tooth back in its socket, you can store it in a shallow container of milk.
Tooth Abscess
An abscessed tooth is a real dental emergency; having a tooth abscess is severe and can become a life-threatening condition. A tooth abscess is caused by a pocket of pus in the tooth that has led to infection. If left alone, this infection can cause fever, sensitivity, and toothache. As well, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, making it very dangerous. Before you visit the dentist, you can rinse your mouth with salt water several times to reduce the pain and disinfect the area.
Ways to Prevent Dental Emergencies
While not all dental emergencies are preventable, there are a couple of things you can do to prevent some forms of dental emergencies. Ensure that you maintain good oral hygiene practices at home and visit a dentist near you for professional cleanings and checkups at least once every six months. Your dentist will check for any loose fillings or other broken dental restorations, as well as examine your mouth for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and infection.
When it comes to dental emergencies, time is of the essence. The sooner you can get to an emergency dentist, the more likely your treatment will be successful, and the lower your risk will be of further dental problems down the line. At Impression Dental, our team of dedicated dental professionals is equipped and qualified to handle any dental emergency that may come into our clinic. Our team values rapid and effective emergency dental care that makes our patients feel safe and comfortable. When you experience a dental emergency, you want a team that you can trust has your best interest at heart. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please do not hesitate to contact our clinic today.