Many people aren’t sure what counts as a dental emergency. It’s important to know that a dental emergency is when you need urgent care to stop bleeding, save a tooth, or protect your gums and jaw.
Sometimes, there are warning signs before a dental emergency happens, and it’s helpful to know what to look for and when you need emergency dental services. In case of emergency dental needs, it’s also good to know what steps to take right away. This article will explain dental emergencies in simple terms and help you understand what to do to get fast care from an emergency dentist.
9 signs you need emergency dental services
#1: Unbearable toothache
If the pain is tolerable and you can wait a day, you can probably take a painkiller until you can make an appointment with the dentist as soon as possible. But if the pain persists, becomes unbearable, or seems to be progressing down your jaw and/or neck, call your emergency dentist in Henderson.
A toothache is usually a major sign that something is wrong, and your dentist should take a look at it right away. It could mean there is an injury, a major cavity, or something else. Avoid ignoring any tooth pain and seek help from a dentist as soon as you can so that it can be addressed and treated quickly.
Another major cause of toothache is an abscess. When you have a tooth abscess, the pain can be unbearable and persistent until you receive proper treatment.
#2: Broken tooth
Much like a pulled tooth, broken, cracked, or fractured teeth are problems sometimes associated with playing sports without mouth protection. However, there are several other factors that can cause such problems.
Dental caries make teeth vulnerable and fragile, making it easier to create cracks or fractures in the short or long term. Of course, bad habits such as nail biting or teeth clenching and bruxism can also be caused.
If you notice that one or more of your teeth are now sensitive to hot and/or cold or that you are experiencing pain, make an appointment with your emergency dentist. This will help you determine if a crack or break could be the cause of your toothache.
#3: Missing crown or filling
A filling or crown can chip or fall off due to wear and tear or extreme pressure. Sometimes, you may not even know that you are missing your crown or filling. A lost or missing crown or filling may seem like a minor inconvenience, but it is actually a dental emergency that requires immediate attention from an emergency dentist.
As soon as you become aware of the situation, contact a dentist to have it replaced or repaired. Waiting too long could expose your tooth to risks like decay and other damage.
#4: Sore gums
If you’re having gum problems, it might be time to call your dentist for an emergency visit.
Gum sensitivity is pretty common for many people. Gingivitis, which is the inflammation of the gums, is one issue that needs attention. If not treated, gingivitis can sometimes lead to more serious problems like periodontitis.
Gums can also become inflamed due to infections or other causes, and other issues like canker sores may pop up. These small ulcers can appear anywhere inside your mouth. Most of the time, they’re harmless and go away on their own in two or three weeks.
However, if a canker sore lasts longer than three weeks, it’s best to see your dentist. Sometimes, persistent ulcers can be a sign of a more serious issue.
#5: Dental or gum abscess
An abscess is a serious dental issue that happens when a pocket of pus forms due to an infection in the tooth. This means the infection has reached the root of the tooth, causing intense pain. If you notice this kind of pain, it’s important to act quickly.
An abscess won’t go away on its own, and immediate care is needed to drain it and treat the infection. If left untreated, it can lead to more serious complications. Make sure to contact your dentist right away if you suspect an abscess to prevent further damage and relieve the pain as soon as possible.
#6: Sudden tooth sensitivity
If your teeth suddenly become so sensitive that even breathing, eating, or drinking causes sharp pain, don’t wait too long to take emergency dental services. This kind of sensitivity could mean that your tooth enamel has worn away, leaving the nerves exposed.
Tooth sensitivity might be a sign of a bigger issue, so it’s best not to ignore it. If the pain is mild, you can take a pain reliever while you wait for your dental appointment. But if the pain gets worse or becomes unbearable, make sure to book an emergency dentist appointment right away.
Getting professional help quickly can prevent the problem from getting worse and save you from further discomfort.
#7: There is swelling
If you notice swelling in your jaw or gums, it’s important not to ignore it! Swelling is usually a sign that something is wrong, and it could mean you have a serious infection. In some cases, the swelling could be caused by an infection in your salivary glands or a tooth that is badly damaged and needs urgent care.
Taking emergency dental services as soon as you notice the swelling is the best step. They can quickly check what’s causing the problem and stop the infection from getting worse. If left untreated, the infection could spread and lead to more serious health issues.
#8: Unexpected tooth loss
Losing an adult tooth is a dental emergency, and you should visit your dentist right away. This can happen due to a fall, an accident, or a hit to the face. It’s also common during sports, which is why wearing a mouthguard while playing is highly recommended to prevent such injuries.
In some cases, the dentist may be able to save and replant your tooth. If the tooth is completely knocked out, try to find it, but be careful not to touch the root. Handle the tooth gently and place it in a container of milk to keep it safe. Acting quickly increases the chances that your dentist can replant the tooth successfully.
#9: Pain for wisdom teeth
If you’re experiencing pain in your wisdom teeth, it’s a good idea to take emergency dental services. Wisdom teeth often cause discomfort as they try to push through, much like baby teeth do. But this pain could also be a sign of something more serious, such as an infection or gum inflammation.
In some cases, people choose to keep their wisdom teeth instead of having them removed. However, this can sometimes lead to issues, like cavities forming on wisdom teeth, which are harder to clean and may need emergency attention.
If the pain is mild, you might be able to manage it temporarily with a painkiller until you can see your dentist. But If the pain becomes severe or doesn’t go away, it’s important to seek professional care and understand what to expect before, during, and after wisdom teeth extraction.
Final Thought
Emergency dental needs can strike unexpectedly, and it’s important to recognize the signs early. If you’re experiencing any of the issues mentioned in this blog, don’t wait—taking immediate action can prevent further complications and pain.
Recognizing the signs of a dental emergency is the first step—but knowing where to turn for fast, reliable care matters just as much.
At Coronado Canyon Dentistree, we’re here when you need us most. Dental emergencies can happen anytime, and our experienced team in Henderson is ready to provide the urgent attention you deserve.
Don’t wait when it comes to your dental health. Whether it’s a severe toothache, broken tooth, or any unexpected issue, we’re just a call away.