Top 3 Signs You Need to See an Emergency Dentist Immediately
Dental issues mostly happen at the most inconvenient time. You might be ready for bed or enjoying a long-awaited vacation, but a toothache or injury can hit you out of the blue and turn a regular day into a worrisome one. The secret is knowing when the problem can wait and when you should hurry to help. As per the CDC report, nearly 2 million Americans are taken to the emergency room for dental issues annually. It’s the proof of just how common those situations are.
Recognizing the signs in time will prevent intense pain, infection, and potential loss of teeth. Let’s take a look at the three serious red flags that signal you must visit an emergency dentist with no delay.
1. Intense or Abrupt Tooth Pain
A toothache is your body’s sign that something is amiss. When the pain begins abruptly or continues to worsen, it may be a sign of an infection deep within the tooth or gums. Delaying treatment may allow the infection to progress, causing swelling or even an abscess.
Dental pain differs from general discomfort. The way it grows so quickly seems something out of a horror novel. It may be nothing more than a dull ache one day, and then it is excruciating that you cannot help but shed a few tears. Seeking help early not only takes the pain away but stops the problem before it gets out of hand.
2. Jaw or Face Swelling
Swelling near your neck, cheeks, or jaw suggests a serious dental infection that requires swift care. The American Dental Association recommends that infections that cause visible swelling can extend beyond the mouth. In rare cases, untreated infections may even reach other parts of the body.
When you also struggle with fever or difficulty swallowing along with swelling, then it is an emergency. These symptoms can signal an abscess or advanced gum infection. If you get help right away, it will minimize the risk of complications and maintain your overall health.
3. Broken or Knocked-Out Tooth
Sports accidents, falling, or even biting down on something too hard can break or knock out a tooth. The good news: an emergency dentist in Nederland can sometimes reinstate the tooth if you get help right away.
According to the American Association of Endodontists, a knocked-out tooth is easy to retrieve when the patient receives oral treatment within 30 minutes to an hour. That is why calling a local dental clinic immediately is advisable. Place the tooth in saliva or milk and report to a professional as soon as possible.
Other Warning Signs That Call for Urgent Visits
Although these three are the most urgent, you should watch out for:
- Uncontrolled bleeding after dental procedures
- Sudden hot or cold sensitivity with pain
- Injuries in the mouth that make chewing or speaking difficult
Each one of these may signal a bigger problem that will not resolve itself.
Why Should You Act Fast During Dental Emergencies?
Dental issues don’t usually improve on their own. Oral infections can become serious, pain can become more severe, and broken-down teeth can be irreparable. Visiting an emergency dentist in Nederland as soon as possible helps you avoid larger procedures down the line and keeps your smile healthy.
If you notice any of these signs of a dental emergency, contact Nederland Family Dental right away. Acting quickly can save your tooth, save your health, and prevent oral discomfort down the line.
