It’s no secret that oral health is important to overall health. Not only does having healthy teeth and gums make you look and feel good, but it also prevents serious health problems down the road. That’s why it’s so important to stay on top of your dental health, and to see a dentist regularly.
Unfortunately, many people don’t realize the importance of dental health until it’s too late. By then, they may have already developed serious dental problems that require extensive and expensive treatment. That’s why it’s so important to be proactive about your oral health and to identify the signs that whatever you’re feeling is considered a dental emergency.
A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate dental care to save a tooth, prevent further damage to the mouth, or relieve severe pain. Dental emergencies can happen to anyone at any time, and it’s important to know what to do in the event that you or a loved one experiences one.
What are Common Dental Emergencies?
There are many different types of dental emergencies that can occur, and each one requires different treatment. Some of the most common dental emergencies include:
1. Any Injuries Affecting Your Gums
This can include anything from a simple cut to your gums to a more serious injury such as a laceration. If you have any kind of injury to your gums, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible, as this can lead to further complications such as infection.
2. Toothaches
Toothaches can be caused by a number of different things, such as tooth decay, a cracked tooth, or an abscess. They can be extremely painful and can make it difficult to eat or drink. If you are experiencing a toothache, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible so that the underlying cause can be treated.
3. Knocked Out Tooth
If you have had a tooth knocked out, it is essential to try and find the tooth and bring it with you to the dentist. There is a chance that the tooth can be re-implanted if it is treated quickly.
4. Broken Tooth
A broken tooth can be caused by several things, such as biting down on something hard or being hit in the face. Beyond the discomfort of a broken tooth, it can also quickly turn into a breeding ground for bacteria to grow in your mouth and infect the damaged area, so it’s best to have it fixed by your dentist immediately.
5. Abscess
An abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms around the tooth that is usually caused by an infection and can cause bouts of extreme pain. If you have an abscess, it is vital to see a dentist as soon as possible so that the infection can be treated.
The Bottom Line: The Importance of Knowing What Constitutes a Dental Emergency
When it comes to our teeth, we often take them for granted. We brush and floss regularly, but sometimes even the most diligent among us can experience a dental emergency. Whether it’s a cracked tooth, a lost filling, or something else entirely, it’s important to know what constitutes a dental emergency.
For example, a cracked tooth may not seem like a big deal, but if the crack is deep enough, it could cause severe damage to the tooth. Similarly, a lost filling can also be a serious issue. If the filling falls out, bacteria can enter the tooth and cause an infection.
If you are not sure whether or not you are experiencing a dental emergency, it is always best to err on the side of caution and contact your dentist. They will be able to assess your situation and provide you with the appropriate treatment.
Are You Looking for the Best Dentist in Lethbridge?
At London Road Dental, we provide comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages. Our experienced dentist, Dr. Nelson, is dedicated to providing quality care and personalized service. We offer a wide range of services, including general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and pediatric dentistry. We also offer emergency dental services for patients who need urgent care.
We understand that everyone’s needs are different, so we offer a variety of payment options to accommodate our patients’ budgets. If you’re looking for the best restorative dentistry in Lethbridge, look no further than London Road Dental!