Dental emergencies can cause substantial pain, discomfort, and swelling and can potentially lead to more serious problems in the future. But what exactly is a dental emergency? When should you see an emergency dentist right away, and when should you wait until your next dental appointment?

It's critical to distinguish between a routine dental issue that may wait until the morning and a true emergency that might endanger your health. Here's what you need to know about identifying dental problems that require emergency care, along with the services offered at 222 Main Street Dental.

Toothache

A toothache can be caused by a variety of factors, including a popcorn husk lodged in your gums, a fractured tooth, or a bacterial infection. Some toothaches are caused by temporary gum inflammation. However, severe toothaches require professional intervention.

Bleeding Gums or Mouth Injuries

Although minor gum irritation is not a dental emergency, bleeding gums, especially if accompanied by pain and edema, might suggest an underlying dental or health problem. It is not typical to have bleeding gums for no apparent reason. If you are having any of these symptoms, contact your dentist immediately.

Knocked-Out Tooth

More than five million teeth are knocked out in children and adults each year, but if this occurs to you as a result of an injury or accident, it does not always imply the tooth is lost for life. Immediate intervention can save the tooth and allow it to be successfully replaced for years to come. It's crucial to take action promptly, ideally within 30 minutes, and seek immediate care from the nearest dentist or endodontist.

Lost Filling or Crown

A missing filling is another possible dental emergency since your tooth might easily crack or chip without that support. It may even expose the tooth's nerves, which can lead to dental complications that require prompt care. When a dental crown cracks or falls off entirely, your tooth is left exposed and prone to infection as well as damage. By arranging an emergency dental visit to replace the crown, you may avoid the need for a root canal, extraction, or other dental treatment.

Abscessed Tooth

A dental abscess, also referred to as a tooth abscess, is a collection of pus inside the teeth or gums. A dental abscess is a critical and potentially life-threatening situation where an infection has developed due to a collection of pus within the tooth. Since the infection may spread to your jaw, the surrounding tissue, and other parts of your body, this requires immediate medical attention.

While excellent preventive care can mitigate some problems, it's important to acknowledge that dental emergencies can still occur. If you find yourself in such a situation, acting promptly is crucial to preventing any escalation. Fortunately, 222 Main Street Dental is here to assist you. We are equipped to handle urgent cases and are open around the clock to address immediate dental needs. Remember, time is of the essence when it comes to dental emergencies.

Call us at (508) 473-3424 for appointments or inquiries. We're conveniently located at 222 Main Street, Milford, MA 01757. We're here to provide you with exceptional dental care.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What qualifies as a dental emergency?

Dental emergencies include severe toothaches, broken or knocked-out teeth, oral infections, and trauma to the mouth or jaw.

Q: What happens during an emergency dental visit?

During an emergency dental visit, the dentist will assess the situation, provide pain relief, and perform any necessary procedures to address the issue and prevent further damage.

Q: Is follow-up care necessary after emergency dental treatment?

Yes, follow-up care may be required to ensure proper healing and address any lingering issues. Your dentist will provide instructions for post-emergency care and schedule any necessary follow-up appointments.

Q: How can I manage dental pain before reaching the dentist?

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help alleviate dental pain temporarily. Avoiding hot or cold foods and applying a cold compress to the outside of the mouth can also provide relief.

Q: How can I prevent dental emergencies?

Maintaining good oral hygiene, wearing mouthguards during sports activities, avoiding chewing hard objects, and attending regular dental check-ups can help prevent many dental emergencies.