ARE YOU HAVING A DENTAL EMERGENCY? HERE’S HOW TO KNOW!

ARE YOU HAVING A DENTAL EMERGENCY? HERE’S HOW TO KNOW!

April 19, 2020

Do you feel dental pain or discomfort? Especially during the uncertain time of COVID-19, you may be wondering when it’s necessary to seek treatment. A dental emergency can often be surprising, and the current situation definitely doesn’t help. That’s why your dentist in North Port has included some of the common warning signs of a true dental emergency. Read on to learn more about dental emergencies so you aren’t left second-guessing if one does occur.

When Are You Having a Real Emergency?

Because dental discomfort is relatively normal, it can sometimes be hard to tell if you’re having a true dental emergency. If some sudden pain occurs without obvious injury, your first step is to floss and rinse your mouth. In some cases, it’s just a pesky piece of food causing irritation. However, if your pain persists, then you should contact your dentist right away. You probably have a tooth infection (known commonly as a toothache), which will typically require root canal therapy. Other examples of dental emergencies include:

  • Lost teeth
  • Broken teeth
  • Broken restorations
  • Lost crown/filling
  • Abscess

If you notice any of these issues, contact your dentist right away. They have all of the dental services necessary to get you back to your full health and out of pain. Plus, there office is deep cleaned and sanitized, so you can feel confident to seek treatment.

Should You Ever Go to the ER?

There are some dental emergencies that can be potentially life-threatening. In these cases, you should go to an urgent care facility right away. If you experience any issues with breathing, uncontrollable bleeding in the mouth, deep facial wounds, jaw injury, or any other emergency that may need general medical attention, go to the ER as soon as possible.

Can You Prevent Dental Emergencies?

While dental emergencies can never be completely prevented, there are some steps you can take to safeguard your smile, including:

  • Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each session
  • Flossing once a day to prevent cavities and infection from plaque and debris
  • Avoid chewing on anything other than food
  • Avoid using your teeth to open packages, bottles, etc.
  • Wear a mouthguard if you participate in sports or physical activity

Now you can recognize a dental emergency with ultimate certainty, and you have some tips for preventing them in the first place! Remember this useful information to keep your smile safe.

About the Practice

At Shore Dental, we have a team of 3 dentists who work together to provide high-quality care for patients of all ages. In the event of an emergency, they offer root canals, custom-made restorations, and a variety of other options to get you out of pain. If you have any questions, they can be contacted through their website or by phone at (941) 257-0826.