When it comes to our teeth, it’s sometimes hard to know if a problem is serious enough to need immediate help from an emergency dentist in New Westminster. A dental emergency is something that requires urgent care from a dentist. Let’s learn more about how you can tell if you have a dental emergency and what to do about it.
What is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is a problem with your teeth or gums that needs quick attention. If you have a dental emergency, it’s important to visit a dentist immediately. Here are some common signs that you might be dealing with a dental emergency:
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Severe Toothache
If you have a toothache that is very painful and doesn’t go away, it could be a dental emergency. Toothaches can be caused by many things, such as cavities, infections, or gum disease. If the pain is severe, you should see a dentist quickly.
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Knocked-Out Tooth
If your tooth gets knocked out, it’s a big deal. It would help if you acted fast. Try to find the tooth and hold it by the crown (the part you can see in your mouth). Rinse it gently with water, but don’t scrub it or remove any tissue pieces.
If you can, place the tooth back into its socket. If that’s too hard, put it in a container of milk. Go to the dentist right away because acting fast can save the tooth.
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Cracked or Broken Tooth
If you break or crack a tooth, it can be very painful, especially if the inner part of the tooth is exposed. Save any pieces of the broken tooth, and rinse your mouth with warm water. Place a cold compress on the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling, and visit a dentist as soon as possible.
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Lost Filling or Crown
Fillings and crowns help protect your teeth. If they fall out, your tooth can be at risk for further damage or infection. Try to keep the filling or crown and bring it to the emergency dentist near you. In the meantime, you can use dental cement (available at a drugstore) to cover the tooth temporarily.
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Abscess
An abscess is a serious infection around the root of a tooth or in the space between the teeth and gums. It can cause a lot of pain, swelling, and even a fever. An abscess is dangerous because the infection can spread to other parts of your body. Rinse your mouth with salt water several times a day and see a dentist immediately.
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Bleeding and Pain After a Tooth Extraction
Some bleeding and discomfort after a tooth extraction are normal. But if the bleeding is heavy and doesn’t stop after a while, or if the pain is intense and doesn’t get better with medication, you might have a dental emergency. Contact your dentist right away.
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Swollen or Painful Gums
If your gums are swollen, red, and painful, it could mean you have gum disease or an infection. This can be very serious if treated slowly. Visit your preferred dentist as soon as you can.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
Knowing what to do in a dental emergency can help save your teeth and reduce pain. Here are some steps you can take:
- Stay Calm: It’s essential to remain calm and think clearly.
- Call Your Dentist: Contact your dentist in New Westminster immediately. If it’s after hours, many dentists have emergency contact numbers or on-call services.
- Use Cold Compresses: If there is swelling, use a cold compress on your cheek to reduce it.
- Rinse Your Mouth: If you have a toothache or an abscess, rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help clean the area and reduce pain.
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. However, do not put aspirin directly on your gums or teeth.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
While not all dental emergencies can be prevented, there are some things you can do to lower your risk:
- Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: See your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. This can help catch problems early before they become emergencies.
- Mouthguards: Wear a mouthguard while playing sports to protect your teeth from injury.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Be careful with hard foods like candy or ice, which can crack your teeth.
- Don’t Use Teeth as Tools: Never use your teeth to open packages or bottles. This can easily cause damage.
Artis Dental Centre Can Save You From Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies can be scary and painful, but knowing the signs and what to do can make a big difference. If you think you have a dental emergency, don’t wait—get help right away. Taking good care of your teeth and seeing your dentist regularly can help prevent emergencies and keep your smile healthy.
If you are looking for a dental clinic in New Westminster for your dental needs, your search ends with Artis Dental Centre. We are expert dental service providers. Also, in times of emergencies, we stand by our patients and save them from dental problems.
