Dental problems never seem to happen when you have time on your hands or happen to be cruising by a dentist’s office. They happen unexpectedly, so it may help you to know ahead of time when and when not to treat a problem as a dental emergency.
Severe or Persistent Tooth Pain
A mild toothache may not require immediate attention, but severe or persistent pain shouldn’t be ignored. Intense discomfort can be caused by a deep cavity, infection, cracked tooth, or another dental problem that needs treatment.
If pain is interfering with your ability to eat, sleep, or function normally, contact your dentist promptly. Don’t assume that pain disappearing means the problem has been resolved.
Facial or Jaw Swelling
Swelling around your face, jaw, or gums can be a sign of an infection, including a dental abscess. Dental infections can become more serious if they aren’t treated.
Contact your dentist promptly if you develop swelling, particularly if it’s accompanied by pain, fever, a bad taste in your mouth, or drainage.
If swelling is rapidly increasing or you’re having trouble breathing or swallowing, find an emergency room immediately.
A Knocked-Out Tooth
A permanent tooth that has been completely knocked out is a dental emergency. If you can, hold the tooth by the crown instead of the root and store it in a small container of milk while you seek immediate dental care (keeping it moist is important to save the tooth).
In certain circumstances, a dentist may be able to reinsert and stabilize the tooth. Time can be an important factor, so don’t wait for a routine appointment.
Tooth Fracture
A significant crack or fracture can expose the sensitive inner layers of a tooth and increase the risk of infection. If that’s the case, get to your dentist as quickly as possible. If it’s a smaller fracture unaccompanied by pain, it’s likely not an emergency, but don’t wait more than a few days to see a dentist.
Depending on the extent of the damage, treatment may involve bonding, a crown, root canal therapy, or extraction.
Uncontrolled Bleeding
Minor bleeding can occur after certain dental procedures, but bleeding that doesn’t stop with appropriate pressure requires prompt attention. Contact your dentist for instructions. If bleeding is severe or accompanied by significant injury, seek emergency medical care.
Not every dental problem requires emergency treatment, but delaying care can sometimes make a manageable issue more complicated. When in doubt, contact your dentist and describe your symptoms. They can help you determine how quickly you need to be seen.
About the Practice
The first thing we’ll ask when you call our office for emergency care is, “How quickly can you get here?” We’ll give you basic first aid instructions over the phone to manage your pain, examine you as soon as you arrive, review the results and create a treatment plan, then jump into action to save your smile. If you’re in Gainesville and in need of urgent dental care, call (352) 332-8133 or book an appointment online.