A dental emergency can strike at any time and with no warning. Perhaps a person is playing a game of touch football on Thanksgiving and a family member decides to up the ante and a tackle comes into play, accidentally knocking out two front teeth. Or maybe on vacation in the tropics, someone decides to go deep-sea fishing, but upon climbing into the fishing boat, they slip on the dock and fall, chipping three of the front teeth. From misplaced fly balls to bagel seeds causing a painful bout of inflammation, there are all sorts of dental emergencies.
Somehow a candidate for emergency care has managed to knock out a tooth. Whether it's the result of a sports injury or because of decay, when a tooth is lost, that person has become a candidate for emergency dental care. If the tooth is salvageable, then it can be reattached to the socket, but this must be done within an hour or two.
A chipped tooth is a universal dental emergency. Small chips can be created by food (nuts and chicken bones have sent many people to the dentist); nevertheless, it's usually some kind of injury or accident that causes a chip. While a person might be embarrassed to walk around with a chip in a front tooth, it is easily fixed with a crown, bond or veneer.
A broken tooth is more serious than a chipped tooth. When a tooth breaks, it might be due to a tiny or hidden chip. Nevertheless, chances are the discomfort and pain will be more severe.
It might seem funny, but getting a piece of food lodged in the wrong place can cause a dental emergency. If something gets stuck deep in a crevice, it can cause inflammation and pain.
The loss of a filling happens more frequently than a person thinks. When someone loses a filling, they need to receive emergency care. If this does not occur, further damage could incur to the tooth.
The assistance of an emergency dentist is vital for some instances of dental trauma. As an example, there is no sense seeing a regular dentist if you have nearly unbearable oral pain resulting from teeth being knocked out from a car accident, sports injury or slip or fall. Professional assistance from an emergency dentist is vital to alleviate the pain, restore the mouth's functionality and ensure the patient does not end up with a smile they are hesitant to show off in front of others. Failing to obtain treatment for the oral health challenges outlined above will of cause the conditions to worsen and may require intense therapy in the coming weeks, months or even years.
When there is an injury to the teeth or mouth, seeking emergency care as soon as possible is essential. In the event of a suspected emergency, don't wait. Contact an emergency dentist right away.
Request an appointment here: https://www.missionvalleydentalarts.com/ or call Mission Valley Dental Arts at (619) 805-4248 for an appointment in our San Diego office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Wondering when dental crowns are recommended? Read on to learn more about this dental restoration. Healthy teeth are crucial components of one's body and play a significant role in overall health. However, many individuals either lack access to dental care or postpone appointments, believing they can address oral health issues later. This delay can lead…
Dental fillings are ideal for treating mild to moderate cavities. They are appropriate for patients of all ages, from young children to elderly adults. In this review, we closely examine the role of dental fillings in treating dental cavities, highlighting the different types of filings, when they are recommended, and how they compare to alternative…
Following a root canal, patients must restore the tooth to ensure it is fully functional. Dental crowns are the most commonly used dental restoration after these procedures. Their full coverage and natural appearance make for a well-rounded restoration that blends in with the rest of the smile. Read on to learn more about crowns and…
Curious about how to find a dentist? Read on to learn more. The dentist you choose is an essential part of successful long-term oral healthcare. Instead of simply selecting the first professional you find, consider how to find a dentist based on your own dental needs, preferences, and goals. The dentist that's right for you…
