Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies can arise for many reasons, including toothache, dental trauma, a broken tooth, or facial swelling. Facing a dental emergency is never pleasant, but acting promptly can make all the difference.
Toothaches
There’s no denying the agony of a toothache, which can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling miserable. Toothaches are often caused by deep decay close to the nerve, which, if left untreated, can lead to nerve pain, infection, or an abscess. It is best to have your tooth examined by a dentist as soon as possible. While a simple filling might be sufficient in some cases, it usually requires something more involved, such as root canal treatment. Addressing the issue promptly makes the solution easier and less complicated. Regular dental checkups and cleans can also help prevent toothaches by identifying and treating cavities early on.
Dental Trauma
Dental trauma, like breaking a front tooth due to an accident, requires urgent attention, preferably within 60 minutes if the tooth’s nerve has been exposed. Immediate treatment is also required for teeth that have been dislodged, pushed into the gums, or knocked out completely. In such cases, immediate dental care significantly improves the chances of saving the affected tooth or teeth.
Chipped or Broken Teeth
Chipped or broken teeth can be annoying, if the injury causes pain, seeking a dentist within a couple of days is advisable, and even if it’s not painful, getting it checked within a week is recommended. Leaving a chipped or broken tooth untreated can lead to food getting trapped in the area, potentially causing decay and gum swelling. Fortunately, early intervention can prevent these issues and restore your tooth back to function.
Facial Swelling
Facial swelling in the lower face is typically a sign of an abscess or infection in the gums or tooth, which can spread to the cheek and even become life-threatening if not promptly addressed. A dentist may need to drain the swelling, prescribe antibiotics, remove a tooth, or initiate root canal treatment to save the tooth and prevent further complications.
In the event of a dental emergency, get in touch with your dentist as soon as possible to determine the necessary course of action. If you require an emergency dentist in Sandgate, you can book online with Sandgate Family Dental or call us on 07 3269 6252.
