Dental emergencies come in various shapes and sizes. The good news is that they’re often tricky to miss or ignore. The bad news, unfortunately, is that this is because the individual suffering from a dental emergency is typically in some rather serious discomfort.
Today, we’re looking at the signs that someone is dealing with a dental emergency and what to do when they arise.
Signs and Symptoms of a Dental Emergency
While the majority of cases of oral discomfort don’t qualify as emergencies, specific telltale symptoms call for an immediate trip to an emergency dentist:
- Severe tooth pain
- Swelling of the gums or jawbone
- Bleeding from the mouth or gums for no apparent reason
- Loose permanent teeth
- Loss of a permanent tooth, either due to impact or untreated decay
What To Do When Faced With a Dental Emergency
If faced with any of these symptoms of a dental emergency, specific steps must be taken to limit the sufferer’s discomfort and facilitate professional treatment and a full recovery.
- Severe toothache – Though not every toothache requires immediate attention, pain is sudden, severe, persistent, and unresponsive to saltwater rinses, icepacks, or over-the-counter pain medication, immediate emergency dental care is recommended.
- Swelling of the jaw – If the jawbone begins to swell, even without pain, it’s time for emergency care, as this may be a sign of a potentially severe infection.
- Swollen or bleeding gums – Similarly, swelling or bleeding of the gums may be a sign of infection or a dental abscess that could result in tooth loss.
- Loss of a tooth. Tooth loss as an adult is not normal. Whether from direct impact or untreated decay, losing a permanent tooth calls for immediate action. Fortunately, knowing what to do can help to save the tooth!
- Pick up the tooth without touching the root
- Rinse without scrubbing
- If possible, replace it in its socket in the gum; if not, place it in a container of milk
- Get to an emergency dentist ASAP!
Find Your Emergency Dentist in Sunnyvale, CA
If you’re in Sunnyvale and think you need an emergency dentist or just want to be prepared, dentist Dr. Neri Lubomirksy and the team at Spruce Dental are here to provide high-quality care when you need it most!