Dental Emergencies

An emergency dental exam is conducted in response to an urgent dental issue or a dental emergency. It is aimed at addressing immediate concerns and providing timely relief to the patient. Emergency exams are typically unscheduled and can occur outside of regular office hours to handle urgent situations such as severe tooth pain, oral infections, dental trauma, or other sudden dental problems. During an emergency exam, the dentist focuses on evaluating and diagnosing the specific dental issue causing the emergency. They may perform a targeted examination of the affected area, utilize diagnostic tools, and take necessary X-rays to determine the extent of the problem. The primary goal of an emergency exam is to alleviate pain, manage the immediate issue, and provide appropriate temporary or immediate treatment to address the emergency situation. Depending on the severity of the emergency, the dentist may recommend follow-up visits for further treatment or a comprehensive exam to assess the overall oral health of the patient.

A dental emergency typically includes severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, broken or cracked teeth, dental abscesses, or any injury that causes excessive bleeding or swelling in the mouth.

Common types of dental emergencies include:

1. Severe toothache or dental pain: Intense, unmanageable pain that may indicate infection, abscess, or exposed nerves.

2. Broken, cracked, or chipped tooth: Caused by trauma or biting something hard, leading to sharp pain or sensitivity.

3. Knocked-out tooth: Immediate action is crucial to re-implant the tooth and restore dental function.

4. Dental abscess: A painful infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and tooth, potentially life-threatening if untreated.

5. Bleeding gums or mouth: Persistent or excessive bleeding that could result from injury or underlying dental conditions.

6. Swollen face or jaw: Often a sign of an infection or injury that requires urgent evaluation.

7. Lost dental fillings or crowns: Can lead to discomfort, further tooth damage, or infection if left untreated.

If you or a person you know experiences any of these symptoms, they should not wait and seek emergency dental care to prevent complications.

If you experience a dental emergency, contact your dentist immediately for advice and guidance. If it's after hours, seek out an emergency dental clinic if necessary.

It's generally not advisable to wait, as untreated dental emergencies can lead to more serious complications, such as infections or tooth loss.

Over-the-counter pain relievers, ice packs, or saltwater rinses can help manage pain and swelling until you receive professional care.

Ignoring a dental emergency can lead to worsening pain, infection, tooth loss, and potential systemic health issues that could arise from untreated dental infections.

Handle the tooth by the crown (not the root), rinse it gently with water, and try to place it back in the socket if possible. If not, store it in a container with milk or saline and seek dental care immediately.