Unlike a sore throat that can wait for a regular appointment, certain dental problems require immediate care. Emergency dental costs may be covered partially or entirely by your insurance.
Some of the most common emergencies include severe pain, swelling, and a fever. Practicing good preventative oral health, such as twice-daily brushing and flossing, can help minimize the need for emergency treatments.
Toothaches
Toothaches are one of the most common emergency dental care Sunset Hills MO. If left untreated, a toothache can lead to more serious oral issues, like an infection or even a jaw fracture.
A visit to the ER is usually not needed for tooth pain, especially if you are able to get into your dentist’s office. However, many people go to the ER for teeth problems that could have been treated at a local dentist’s office instead.
Emergency dentists are highly-trained medical professionals who specialize in urgent dental care. They are equipped to handle a wide range of dental emergencies, from severe tooth pain and broken teeth to cracked lips and infected gums. They also have access to specialized equipment and tools that most ERs do not have, which can help with certain types of dental emergencies. They are also able to offer financial methods, like dental payment plans and discounts, to make treatment more affordable. This makes them an excellent choice for those with dental emergencies that occur after hours or during the weekend.
Broken Teeth
Teeth can break due to trauma or simply wear and tear, so it’s important to see a dentist as soon as you suspect an issue. If left untreated, broken teeth can cause tooth decay, pain and even infection.
The severity of a broken tooth is usually determined by how much of the tooth is damaged. A minor break, such as a chipped cusp, typically only affects the outermost surface of the tooth. This type of injury can be fixed with non-invasive emergency dental care Sunset Hills MO treatments such as a composite bonding or enamel reshaping.
A cracked or fractured tooth is more serious because it exposes the inner nerve and pulp. Cracked or fractured teeth can present with a variety of symptoms including pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, swelling of the gums and bleeding. Broken molars (the flat teeth at the back of your mouth) are harder to spot, but you may feel a jagged or sharp edge with your tongue.
Knocked-Out Teeth
More than five million teeth are knocked out in children and adults every year, but they don’t necessarily have to be lost for good. The key is immediate action and keeping the tooth moist.
Ideally, patients should see an emergency dentist within 30 minutes of the injury to maximize the chances of reattaching a knocked out tooth. While a knocked out tooth can’t be saved 100% of the time, proper treatment can prevent complications like infections, bite issues, and jaw bone loss down the road.
To help preserve a knocked out tooth, patients should locate the tooth immediately and pick it up by the crown (chewing surface) and not the root. The tooth should be rinsed gently if dirty and stored in a storage solution or milk (or, in an emergency, the patient’s saliva) until the patient can see their dentist. Do not use soap, as this can damage the delicate tooth cells needed for reattachment.
Swollen Gums
Many people experience swelling in the gums for a variety of reasons. Some are caused by inflammation and have a sudden onset. Others, such as vitamin deficiencies or rare disorders of the immune system, may develop slowly and worsen over time.
Bleeding gums can be a sign of serious emergency dental care Sunset Hills MO issues, including gingivitis, advanced gum disease, and an abscess. It is important to see a dentist as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
To alleviate discomfort until you can see a dentist, take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen as directed and rinse with salt water to clean the area. You can also try to remove food particles stuck between your teeth, such as chips or popcorn, which can lodge under the gums and cause irritation. Practicing good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist are also key to preventing gum problems. These steps will help reduce inflammation and prevent infection, so you can enjoy your healthy smile.
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