Understanding dental emergencies
A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate attention to alleviate pain, prevent further damage, or save a tooth. These situations can range from severe toothaches and infections to knocked-out teeth and broken restorations. Recognising the signs of a dental emergency is crucial for seeking timely treatment. Common dental emergencies include:
- Severe toothaches: Persistent and intense tooth pain can indicate an infection or abscess, requiring immediate care.
- Knocked-out teeth: Time is critical in saving a knocked-out tooth. Prompt treatment can significantly increase the chances of successful re-implantation.
- Broken or chipped teeth: Damaged teeth can cause pain and sensitivity, and they are also vulnerable to infection.
- Lost fillings or crowns: These restorations protect your teeth, and their loss can expose the underlying tooth to damage.
- Dental abscesses: These infections can cause severe pain, swelling, and fever, and they require urgent treatment to prevent complications.
- Bleeding gums: Uncontrolled gum bleeding can indicate a serious infection or periodontal disease.