Dental emergencies can strike without warning, disrupting your daily routine and making eating, sleeping, and relaxation difficult. Dentists want their patients to be aware of the types of pain that constitute an emergency and require a prompt office visit.
When Dental Pain is an Emergency
Severe Toothache
Any time a toothache feels severe enough to disrupt your daily life, it is an emergency. You may have a dental infection or need a root canal, among other possible treatments.
Broken or Severely Cracked Tooth
If you break a tooth, have it checked out as soon as possible. If the pulp chamber inside the tooth becomes open to the air, you may develop a severe dental infection or abscess. If you break a tooth, save the pieces if possible.
Knocked-Out or Dislodged Tooth
If you or your child knocks out a permanent tooth, save the tooth in a small container of saliva or milk and bring it to the dentist as soon as possible. The sooner you arrive at the dentist’s office, the more likely we will be able to save your tooth. If you partially knock out or dislodge a tooth, call for an emergency visit.
Dental Infection
If you have swelling in the face or jaw, pimples on your gums, severe toothache, or fever and chills, you may have a dental abscess or infection. An infection requires immediate treatment because it can endanger neighboring teeth and cause systemic illness.
Non-Emergency Situations
Minor Chip or Crack in Tooth
If you chip a tooth, call for a business-day appointment. Your dentist will want to evaluate the size of the chip and what type of repair may work best.
Mild Toothache
Suppose you have a dull toothache that feels better with over-the-counter pain medication, ice, or moist heat. In that case, it can likely wait until the next business day, but ensure that you call immediately if the situation worsens.
Lost or Broken Dental Restoration
If you lose a crown or filling, it is generally only an emergency if it causes severe pain. Prompt care the next business day should be sufficient.
When to Seek Emergency Medical Care First
When in doubt, always seek emergency medical attention first because seconds matter. Here are a few examples of oral injuries that may need medical attention:
Facial Trauma
If you have suffered a fall or blow to the face, visit the emergency room first. Broken facial bones, jaw damage, and other injuries can endanger your health.
Oral Tissue Damage or Lacerations
Call or visit the ER if you have experienced this injury.
Severe Bleeding
If your oral bleeding does not stop within 15 to 30 minutes, call or visit the ER.
High Fever
If you feel seriously unwell, call or visit the ER before calling the dentist. Your dental infection may be spreading to other systems.
Immediate First Aid for Dental Emergencies
While you wait for your emergency appointment, here are steps you can take to soothe your pain:
- Apply cool compresses to the cheek on the affected side
- Take over-the-counter medication like acetaminophen to ease discomfort
- Rinse the mouth gently with warm water
Don’t Wait to See the Dentist
Many patients who experience dental pain put off receiving care as long as possible. However, waiting until your pain is an emergency may result in more severe complications. Call us as soon as you have a question about your oral health, or if you feel you are experiencing severe symptoms, call the emergency room first.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Dentistry
How do I determine when I should receive emergency dental care?
If you have any questions about what type of dental conditions constitute an emergency, please call your family dentist. Your dentist will assess your situation and let you know whether they believe you require prompt care.
What if my child knocks out a baby tooth?
Unfortunately, dentists cannot replant baby teeth because doing so would hurt the permanent tooth underneath the gum. However, parents should still arrange emergency dental care to check for signs of damage to the gums, bone, and other teeth.
Call Chagrin Falls Dental
Don’t delay care in an emergency. We can handle your dental emergencies both during and after hours. Call our office at 440-247-8641 for assistance.