Are You Experiencing a Dental Emergency in Tacoma?
Dental emergencies can occur unexpectedly, causing intense pain and discomfort. Identifying these emergencies and seeking immediate dental care can prevent further complications, preserve oral structures, and alleviate pain.
At Petrie Advanced Dental, our Tacoma, WA, emergency dentist wants patients to be able to tell when they’re experiencing a dental emergency so they can seek timely care at our Tacoma dental office with our emergency dental services.
The Importance of Identifying Dental Emergencies
Recognizing and identifying dental emergencies is critical for maintaining good oral health and well-being. Dental emergencies can arise suddenly, causing severe pain, discomfort, and potential long-term damage if not addressed promptly. Individuals can take immediate action by identifying dental emergencies, seeking appropriate dental care, and minimizing the potential risks associated with oral health issues.
Common Signs of a Dental Emergency
Severe Tooth Pain
Intense and persistent tooth pain can indicate a dental emergency. If you’re experiencing excruciating pain that doesn’t subside with over-the-counter pain relievers, it’s wise to contact our Tacoma emergency dentist immediately. A severe toothache may indicate an infection, abscess, or tooth fracture that requires professional attention.
Swelling and Bleeding Gums
Swelling and bleeding gums are common signs of gum disease, but they can also indicate a dental emergency. If your gums are swollen, tender, and bleeding excessively, it could indicate an advanced gum infection or an abscess. Prompt treatment is necessary to prevent the infection from spreading.
Knocked-Out Tooth
Having a tooth knocked out due to an accident or injury is undeniably a dental emergency. If this happens to you, you must act quickly. Try to locate the tooth and handle it by the crown (avoid touching the root), gently rinse it with water if dirty, and attempt to reinsert it into the socket. If that’s not possible, place the tooth in milk or a tooth preservation kit and see a dentist immediately. Time is of the essence for successful reimplantation.
Loose or Dislodged Tooth
A loose or dislodged tooth is another situation that requires immediate attention. If a tooth is partially knocked out of its socket, try to gently push it back into place and bite down on a clean piece of cloth to hold it in place. Seek dental care at Petrie Advanced Dental as soon as possible to secure the tooth and prevent further damage.
Oral Bleeding
Oral bleeding that doesn’t stop after a reasonable amount of time or is excessive may indicate a dental emergency. If you have uncontrollable bleeding from the mouth, it could be a sign of a severe injury, advanced gum disease, or other underlying issues. Contact our dentist or visit a local emergency dental clinic.
Broken or Fractured Tooth
A broken or fractured tooth is not only painful but also requires immediate attention. If you have a tooth that is cracked, chipped, or broken, it’s essential to see a dentist immediately. Depending on the severity of the damage, treatment options may include dental bonding, fillings, or even a dental crown to restore the tooth’s integrity and functionality.
Oral Abscess
An oral abscess is an infection that occurs around the root of a tooth or in the space between the teeth and gums. Symptoms can include severe, persistent, throbbing toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold, fever, swelling in your face or cheek, tender, swollen lymph nodes under your jaw, and a rush of foul-smelling and tasting, salty fluid in your mouth, followed by pain relief if the dental abscess ruptures.
Sudden Sensitivity to Hot or Cold Temperatures
Tooth sensitivity that occurs suddenly and is severe could indicate a broken filling, a tooth fracture, or an infection. In some cases, it could mean you have an exposed root due to receding gums or periodontal disease.
Facial Swelling
Swelling in the face or neck can be caused by an infected tooth or an impacted wisdom tooth. In some cases, it could be due to cellulitis, an infection of the skin and tissues beneath the skin. Such infections can spread and become very serious if not treated promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as a dental emergency?
Dental emergencies include severe tooth pain, knocked-out teeth, loose or dislodged teeth, persistent oral bleeding, broken or fractured teeth, abscesses, and severe gum infections. These conditions require immediate attention from a dentist to prevent further complications and alleviate pain.
Can a broken tooth be repaired?
Yes, a broken tooth can often be repaired using various dental treatments. The appropriate treatment will depend on the extent of the damage. Your dentist will evaluate your situation to determine the best solution.
What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?
If a tooth is knocked out, it’s best to act quickly. Follow these steps:
- Gently pick up the tooth by the crown
- If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with water
- Try to reinsert the tooth into its socket
- If reinsertion is not possible, place the tooth in a container of milk or a tooth preservation kit
- Visit a dentist immediately, ideally within 30 minutes of the tooth being knocked out
Trust Our Dentist at the First Sign of an Emergency
Identifying dental emergencies is essential for protecting oral health and overall well-being. By recognizing dental emergency signs such as severe tooth pain, knocked-out teeth, or persistent oral bleeding, individuals can take immediate action and seek professional dental care.
Contact our Tacoma dental office at (253) 761-5422 to schedule an appointment and get the emergency dental care you need. We serve patients in Lakewood, Federal Way, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, and University Place.
