Not all dental issues are created equally. Some are not urgent and can be taken care of during regular business hours; others need immediate attention, no matter when it happens. In this post, you’ll find a breakdown in the difference between when you need to seek immediate attention from a dentist versus a concern that can wait.
Urgent Dental Care Scenarios
Tooth Loss
Whether you’ve suffered a blow to the face or some other accident, losing a tooth definitely constitutes a visit to the dentist right away. If the tooth is still intact, it may be able to be saved with timely attention.
Severe Pain
If you’re experiencing severe pain from a toothache or other anomaly, it’s important to seek treatment as quickly as possible. Pain is a responsive signal sent out to the body for a reason; something is not right!
Fever
A fever that accompanies a toothache or other type of pain in the mouth could be a sign of an infection. You definitely don’t want to leave this untreated for any longer than you have to.
Swelling or Inflammation
Swelling in the face or gums may be an indication of an abscess or some other type of dental issue. It’s important in this case to get to a dentist as soon as possible.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
A broken or chipped tooth is not to be ignored, especially when it results in intense pain. It could be a sign of tooth decay, which should be addressed promptly.
Non-Urgent Dental Care Scenarios
Sensitive Teeth
Tooth sensitivity can be a sign that something is amiss, but it doesn’t require an emergency trip to the dentist. Desensitizing toothpaste and good oral hygiene can often remedy this problem.
Lost Restoration
Though it’s not wise to wait too long on this one, if a crown, filling, or bridge comes loose or is lost, it doesn’t necessarily require dropping everything and driving to the dentist. You should contact their office before long, though, and ask what the next steps should be.
Dull Toothache
Some toothaches are intense and cause acute pain, while others may be better described as a “dull ache.” If the latter applies to you, you should visit the dentist soon, but it’s not an emergency.
Bleeding Gums
If you’ve noticed your gums bleeding while brushing your teeth, for example, it is probably a sign of gingivitis. Symptoms of this condition can be managed with good oral hygiene. It’s ideal to visit a dentist, but there is no emergency rush.
Food Stuck Between Teeth
This one is considered more of an annoyance than an emergency. Try to gently remove the food with floss or a toothpick and avoid using sharp tools to dislodge it.
You want the best care for your teeth, but not every issue is an emergency. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to contact your dentist and seek advice on whether your problem needs immediate attention.
About the Practice
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, trust our team at Advanced Dental Concepts to take care of you. We offer same-day appointments so that you can see one of our experienced, caring dental experts to address your issue. If you’re anxious about the procedure, we offer sedation methods to put your troubled mind at ease. Schedule your appointment with us online or by contacting our Portage office at (219) 763-6878.