8 Reasons You May Need an Emergency Dentist

If you live long enough, chances are good that you or a loved one will need emergency dental care at some point in your lives. And it always seems to happen on a weekend, doesn't it? Fortunately, you can always receive needed dental care from an emergency dentist.

Let's take a look at eight reasons why you may need emergency dental care.

1. Cracked Tooth

The pain from a cracked tooth can be significant. Whether it happens due to an accident, or biting down on something hard, your tooth will need fast attention to prevent the crack from expanding. According to Dr. Alvarez, a dentist Marshfield MO, “Taking action swiftly helps minimize the chances of losing your tooth and requiring more than a dental veneer and crown.”

2. Chipped Tooth

Having a chipped tooth can also be a significant problem because nerves could be exposed if the chip is severe. Dentist in Marrero, Dr. Lacey Andreotta says, “A chip can also allow bacteria to gain entry into the interior part of the tooth.” Seeking out the services of an emergency dentist can make it easy to add a dental crown, preventing damage from worsening.

3. Swollen Gums

Having gums swell up under a tooth is usually an indication of some type of infection. Even if it temporarily gets better and returns, you still need to have it checked out soon. Emergency dental care can help clear the infection and prevent its spread.

4. Bleeding Gums

Having bleeding gums does not always mean that you are having an actual emergency. For example, you may have overdone things with brushing and flossing. Bleeding gums can also indicate a nutritional imbalance.

The thing to watch for is if you have uncontrolled bleeding in your gums. Seek emergency dental care in this situation.

If your gums bleed regularly, this could be an indication of periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease. In this case, make an appointment with your regular dentist at your earliest convenience.

5. Loose Tooth

If you suddenly notice that you have one or more loose teeth, this is definitely a reason to contact an emergency dentist without delay, particularly if you have had a recent accident. One of the dentists Lee’s Summit MO trusts, Dr. Calloway, says “Getting emergency help gives you your best chance of saving such a tooth.”

6. Lumps in Your Mouth

Do not ignore symptoms like lumps on your gums, tongue, or roof of your mouth. If you notice that you have lumps, contact your family dentist right away.

7. Suddenly Sensitive Teeth

Dr. Witty, a Steamboat Springs dentist, says that under normal circumstances, your teeth should not be expected to be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. If they suddenly become sensitive, do not ignore the pain. Contact an emergency dentist to have them check it out and provide prompt pain relief. You may need to make a subsequent appointment with your regular dentist for treatment.

8. Missing Filling

Dental fillings are placed to protect teeth that have undergone tooth decay. If one is missing, your tooth can rapidly become infected, leading to severe pain and the possible loss of the tooth. Contact an emergency dentist to get a replacement filling. You may also need to get a dental crown to further protect the tooth.

The Bottom Line

Not every dental problem represents a true dental emergency. The main thing to keep in mind is that if you are experiencing severe pain, don't hesitate to contact an emergency dentist. You should also seek emergency dental care if you have a loose or knocked-out tooth, as time is of the essence to save the tooth.

If you are in doubt as to whether your situation qualifies as a legitimate dental emergency, always play it safe and contact an emergency dentist as soon as possible.