6 Most Common Dental Emergencies to See a Dentist For

Having oral health issues can be very worrying. It is hard to look at your mouth by yourself, and it can be hard to decide whether your symptom needs urgent dental attention or can be fixed by home remedies and a visit to the dentist later.

However, some dental situations need nothing less than the immediate care of a dentist. Here are six common dental emergencies to go to a dentist for:

1. Injured Mouth or Jaw

Any injury to the mouth or jaw that causes pain and swelling should be examined by a medical professional quickly. These traumas can damage your teeth or even cause a fracture in the jaw. Without adequate treatment, there could be consequences or even a dangerous infection.

2. Dental Abscess

A dental abscess is a painful, serious infection in the mouth that causes a pocket of pus to form. Symptoms may include swelling, a tooth feeling too long, changes in bite, fever, pus, severe pain, and swollen areas in the mouth that look like pimples. Treating a dental abscess quickly is important to avoid further health complications.

3. Knocked Out Tooth

Losing a tooth through trauma is an urgent dental issue. If the tooth is only slightly loose, leave it in the socket. For a fully knocked-out tooth, take hold of the crown portion, not touching the roots. If it's unclean, a light rinse with water can be done. If you can, put the tooth back in the socket, pointing it in the right direction. 

If the socket is swollen, do not force the tooth back in—instead, put it in a cup of milk or hold it between your cheek and gum to keep it moist. Take the tooth with you to your dentist or the emergency room. If you make it in time, your original tooth can be restored.

4. Swelling

If your mouth begins to swell, it is a sign of a serious infection. It is important to act quickly to avoid further complications. Keep your head elevated to reduce swelling, and apply a cold compress. Seek out emergency dental care as soon as possible.

5. Severe Pain

If you have any dental pain that isn't too severe, you can usually treat it yourself with over-the-counter medications. However, if the pain is severe and won't go away or isn't getting better with medication, you should see a dentist immediately as it could be a sign of a more serious issue.

6. Symptoms of an Infection

Experiencing any of the following symptoms could indicate an oral infection: fever, swelling or tenderness in or around the mouth, painful spots that feel hot to the touch, pus in the mouth, teeth that feel longer than usual, or pimple-like spots on the gums. If you suspect you have an oral infection, seeking medical or dental care is important to prevent it from worsening or spreading to other body parts.

Conclusion

Dental emergencies can vary in severity and are often preventable by taking care of your teeth and visiting the dentist regularly. Regardless of the cause, seeking professional dental care for any dental emergency is important. Taking prompt, appropriate action is key to minimizing the risk of long-term damage to your teeth. With the right care and treatment, most dental emergencies can be resolved.

Exo Dental in Rogers, AR, provides comprehensive digital dentistry, dental implants, and oral surgery services like wisdom tooth removal for adults and teens. We provide a calm and relaxing experience, whether you're replacing a missing tooth or struggling with multiple oral health concerns. If you’re looking for a dentist in Rogers, Arkansas, look no further! Get in touch with us to book your appointment!