What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is a condition that requires immediate attention. If not treated immediately, some oral injuries can lead to further damage or serious complications. Not all dental issues are emergencies, but if you experience bleeding, persistent pain, or broken teeth, you need immediate care. It is vital to get dental treatment as soon as possible when you experience certain injuries. 

Severe Toothache

A mild toothache is something that most people will experience at some point. It can often be treated using painkillers or dislodging anything stuck between the teeth. A severe toothache is a different issue, and it may require emergency treatment. 
 

If your mouth is swollen, applying a cold compress on the cheek or side of the face can help. Do not put painkillers directly on the tooth or gum as it could harm the tissue. Visit the dentist as soon as possible. 

Knocked-out Tooth
 

If your tooth gets knocked out, getting emergency care can save it. Retrieve the tooth and rinse the root off, but do not rub or remove any attached tissue. Pick it up by the crown or the part visible above the gum. Try to place the tooth back in the socket facing the right way. If that is not possible, put it in a container with milk or water with a pinch of salt. Visit the dentist as soon as you can.

Severely Cracked Tooth

If your tooth is badly cracked, pick all the broken pieces and rinse them. Use warm water to rinse your mouth and a piece of gauze to stem any bleeding. Hold the gauze in place for about 10 minutes until the bleeding stops. Applying a cold compress near the chipped or broken tooth site can reduce swelling and relieve pain. Get to your dentist or emergency room as soon as possible.  

Dental Abscess 

A dental abscess may require emergency care. It is a swollen area or infection that occurs around a tooth root or the section between the teeth and gums. An abscess can be a serious condition that can cause damage to oral tissue and the surrounding teeth. 
 

It can cause severe pain and jaw or face swelling as the infection spreads if not treated. A saltwater rinse can help draw out pus to ease the pain. This is a dental condition that requires immediate care.

Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums can be due to a mouth injury or gum disease. Aggressive brushing or a cut caused by hard food can cause gum bleeding. These injuries are usually mild, and the bleeding stops within a few minutes. 
 

If your gums are bleeding and accompanied by pain or swelling, you need to visit the emergency room as soon as possible. This could be a sign of gingivitis or periodontitis. Persistent bleeding can be a sign of an underlying dental condition. 
 

Other dental problems considered emergencies include partially dislodged or extruded teeth and severe soft tissue injuries. If you experience broken or lost dental restorations, visit the dentist as soon as possible. 
 

For more on dental emergencies, visit The Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry at our Destin, Panama City Beach, or Navarre, Florida offices. Call 850-810-0300, 850-810-0600, or 850-409-6400 to schedule an appointment today.