We mean rare occasions when you need a dentist right away. These situations often cause much pain or worry. They require quick action to prevent more trouble or discomfort. Let’s dive into what counts as an extreme dental emergency. Also, how you should handle these situations.
Immediate Help: What Counts as an Extreme Dental Emergency?
An extreme dental emergency involves severe problems that need immediate attention. Here are some common examples:
1. Knocked-Out Tooth
If an adult tooth gets knocked out, it’s a clear signal to seek help straight away. Keeping the tooth moist and getting to a dentist within an hour can sometimes save the tooth.
2. Severe Toothache
A toothache that becomes unbearable points to serious issues like infections or decay reaching deep into the tooth. Quick treatment is essential to relieve pain and tackle the underlying problem.
3. Broken or Cracked Tooth
If you break or crack a tooth, and it comes with severe pain or bleeding, it’s time to see a dentist. They can assess the damage and decide the best way to treat it.
4. Abscess or Serious Infection
An abscess is a serious infection that occurs around the tooth root or in the space between the teeth and gums. It’s often very painful and can cause swelling or pus. This type of infection can spread, making it crucial to get treated quickly.
Do You Have to Pay for Emergency Dentist Services in the UK?
What Should You Do in These Situations?
If you find yourself in one of these predicaments, here’s what you should do immediately:
For a Knocked-Out Tooth:
- Pick up the tooth by the crown (the part that is usually exposed in your mouth).
- Rinse the tooth gently in water if it’s dirty.
- Try to put it back in its socket if possible. If not, keep it in a container of milk or a special dental preservation kit.
For a Severe Toothache:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Use dental floss to remove any food caught between your teeth.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed. But, never put it on the gums or the aching tooth. It may burn the tissue.
For a Broken or Cracked Tooth:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to reduce swelling.
For an Abscess:
- Rinse your mouth with a mild salt-water solution. Do this several times a day to ease pain and draw the pus out.
How Can You Prevent Dental Emergencies?
You can’t always prevent dental emergencies. But, there are steps to lessen the chance of them.
- Keep up with regular dental checkups.
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports.
- Avoid chewing hard foods, ice, or other hard objects.
Conclusion
Extreme dental emergencies need immediate care to avoid long-term damage or severe pain. Knowing what to do can save a tooth or prevent a serious infection from getting worse. Always keep your dentist’s emergency contact details handy, just in case you need to make a quick call for help.
Need Immediate Dental Help? Contact Moston Dental Practice!
If you have any of the dental emergencies we’ve talked about, or if you’re unsure about your symptoms, don’t wait. Contact Moston Dental Practice immediately. We’re here to provide the urgent care you need with speed and compassion. Remember, in dental emergencies, time is of the essence. Call us or visit our website to get quick assistance and protect your oral health. Your smile is important to us, and we’re committed to restoring it as swiftly as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I break a tooth?
Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to your face. Contact Moston Dental Practice now for more guidance. You can also arrange an emergency appointment.
How can I tell if my toothache is an emergency?
If the pain is severe, doesn’t go away, or is accompanied by swelling or fever, treat it as an emergency. Call Moston Dental Practice for advice and prompt treatment.
What do I do if I lose a dental filling?
Keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. Call Moston Dental Practice as soon as possible to avoid further damage and get a replacement filling.
Can I prevent dental emergencies?
Yes, regular check-ups and good oral hygiene help. So do wearing a mouthguard during sports and avoiding hard foods. These things can greatly cut the risk of dental emergencies.
What’s the best way to handle a knocked-out tooth?
Keep the tooth moist at all times. If possible, place it back in the socket without touching the root. Otherwise, place it in milk and contact Moston Dental Practice immediately.
Is a lost crown considered a dental emergency?
Yes, a lost crown needs prompt treatment to avoid further damage or infection. Cover the tooth with dental cement if possible. Then, call Moston Dental Practice for a quick fix.
