A trip to an emergency dentist can help to alleviate pain, control bleeding and prevent the development of infections. Their round-the-clock availability and advanced skills make them vital in promptly addressing unexpected oral health concerns.
Severe tooth pain that persists after over-the-counter medication is used or severe jaw pain could be signs of an infection, gingivitis and other gum diseases. Emergency dentists are trained to identify and treat these infections promptly, preventing them from spreading and affecting other areas of the mouth and body.
Infections
Tooth infections can lead to severe pain and swelling, which may cause individuals to seek emergency dentist Raleigh NC services. Tooth infections are primarily caused by bacteria that invade the soft tissue of the tooth and attack blood vessels and nerves, causing inflammation. Individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to tooth infections, and they should be extra cautious of sugary foods and drinks to help minimize the risk of infection.
Infection symptoms include a persistently sore tooth, pain that worsens when chewing or drinking hot or cold beverages, red and tender gums, and a foul-smelling breath. In addition to administering antibiotics, emergency dentists can drain abscesses and remove infected tissue by making a small incision and applying pressure to release pus.
Infection prevention strategies include limiting patients and companions to one appointment per person, implementing hand hygiene procedures, preventing aerosol-generating activities, and asking individuals with respiratory symptoms not to enter the dental setting until they improve. In addition, all personnel should be immunized against the current influenza strain to reduce the risk of transmission. Moreover, the dental office should post signs at the entrance that recommend that individuals cover their mouths and nose when coughing or sneezing. This helps to limit the spread of respiratory pathogens, and it also teaches individuals about proper cough etiquette.
Knocked Out Teeth
A knocked-out tooth also called an avulsed tooth, is often seen as a serious emergency dentist Raleigh NC. This kind of injury is most often caused by sports or accidents and can leave the patient in severe pain and with a gap in their smile. The good news is that with proper care, this tooth can usually be saved.
The first step is to find the tooth and rinse it gently with water, not soap. Avoid touching the root of the tooth, as this can cause additional damage. Once the person finds the tooth, they should try to put it back into its socket while keeping it between their gums and cheek. If they are unable to do this, the person should take over-the-counter pain relievers and then go see an emergency dentist.
The sooner the person can get to a dentist, the better the chances that the knocked out tooth will be able to be reattached to its roots. When the tooth is reattached, the dentist will place a splint on both sides of the tooth to hold it in place while the root heals. The splint will be removed once the tooth has fully healed. If the knocked out tooth cannot be saved, the dentist will discuss options for replacement, such as a bridge or an implant.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries to the gums, cheeks, and tongue are common and can be painful. These tissues are comprised of a large number of blood vessels, making them sensitive to injury and easily bleeding. They often occur from accidental bites, sports-related trauma, and contact with hot foods or dental operations. While these injuries are less serious than a knocked out tooth or dental abscess, they still warrant emergency care to manage pain, control bleeding, and prevent infection.
Minor soft tissue injuries may heal well with proper treatment, particularly if they are not exposed to excessive pressure for prolonged periods of time or to bacterial contamination from a dirty mouth rinse. Rinsing with a lukewarm solution of salt and water, or using an antiseptic mouthwash can help clean the wound and alleviate pain and swelling. Placing a piece of clean gauze or a paper towel over the injured area to apply pressure and stop bleeding is helpful as well. If your injury involves the tongue or cheek, gently reposition it if possible.
Most sprains, strains, and tears in ligaments and tendons heal very quickly if properly treated. However, severe injuries such as complete tears and those involving arteries or nerves can result in permanent damage if not identified and treated promptly. CT or MRI scans are sometimes used to check for such complications, which are difficult to spot on x-rays because they involve bones and soft tissues rather than just teeth.
Lost Fillings
When a dental filling or crown falls off, it’s considered a dental emergency and needs to be addressed immediately. If left untreated, a lost filling leaves the tooth exposed to bacteria, leading to further pain and complications. An emergency dentist can replace the lost filling or crown and address any underlying issues that are causing the tooth discomfort.
Loose teeth can be caused by receding gums, jawbone tissue loss, or traumatic dental trauma. An emergency dentist can stabilize the loose tooth and prevent further damage to the surrounding healthy teeth.
If a tooth is knocked out, an emergency dentist can place it back into its socket without touching the root. If this isn’t possible, it’s important to save the tooth fragment and store it in milk or saliva until you can see an emergency dentist.
If you’re experiencing a dental crisis, finding an emergency dentist may seem challenging in the moment. However, you can start by seeking recommendations from friends, family members, or primary healthcare providers. You can also check online directories that specialize in listing emergency dentists and their contact information. You should also familiarize yourself with your dental insurance plan to understand your coverage. Calling ahead to determine an emergency dentist’s availability can also help you reduce waiting time upon arrival. Be sure to bring any pertinent documentation, such as dental records or X-rays.