Signs You Should Seek Emergency Dental Care
When it comes to dental health, knowing when to seek emergency care can mean the difference between saving or losing a tooth. In this blog, we'll discuss the key signs that indicate a dental emergency, and why immediate attention is crucial. Let’s dive in so you can make the best possible decision for your oral health.
Severe Toothache
A severe toothache can be a sign of various dental problems, such as infection, decay, or an abscess. If the pain is intense, throbbing, and doesn't subside with over-the-counter pain relievers, it's a clear sign you need emergency dental care.
Ignoring a severe toothache can lead to more serious complications, including the spread of infection and potential tooth loss. Therefore, it's crucial to seek immediate help if you're experiencing intense toothache.
Loose or Knocked-Out Tooth
Adult teeth are meant to last a lifetime, so if one becomes loose or gets knocked out, it's a dental emergency. This can occur due to trauma, such as a fall, sports injury, or accident.
If this happens, it's important to seek immediate dental care. A knocked-out tooth can often be saved if treated within an hour of the incident. A loose tooth, on the other hand, can often be stabilized by a dentist.
Bleeding and Swelling
Bleeding and swelling in the mouth can be a sign of several dental emergencies, including gum disease, trauma, or an abscess. If you're experiencing persistent bleeding or noticeable swelling, it's important to seek emergency dental care immediately.
Not only can these symptoms cause discomfort and pain, but if left untreated, they can also lead to more serious health issues, including tooth loss and systemic infection.
Lost Filling or Crown
Lost fillings or crowns may not seem like an emergency, but they can lead to pain and further damage to the tooth if not addressed promptly. Without the protective covering, your tooth is exposed to temperature changes and pressure, which can cause discomfort and further deterioration.
If you lose a filling or crown, it's important to seek emergency dental care as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potential tooth loss.
Unexplained Sores or Bumps
Sores or bumps in the mouth that don't heal within two weeks could be a sign of oral cancer and should be examined immediately by a dentist. Early detection is key in treating oral cancer effectively.
Other symptoms of oral cancer include unexplained numbness, pain or tenderness, difficulty chewing or swallowing, and changes in voice. If you have any of these symptoms, it's crucial to seek immediate dental care.
Get Emergency Dental Care in Falls Church, VA
At Tysons Dental Esthetics in Falls Church, we understand that dental emergencies can be stressful and often painful. That's why we offer emergency dental care to provide relief and treatment as quickly as possible. If you're experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, don't hesitate to call us at (703) 821-8111 or request an appointment online. Your health and comfort are our top priority.
