An emergency dentist is a particular type of dental professional who undergoes additional education and training to learn how to deal with urgent and emergency situations. While emergency dentists do learn how to provide general dentistry care, they also learn how to think and act on the spot when an emergency happens. In most cases, emergency dentists have their own separate practices that only offer this type of care. Additionally, they may have different hours so they can be available for last-minute situations.
Another thing to know about emergency dentists is that they do not typically perform long-term care. Instead, they treat the issue at hand immediately and then either provide references to other dental specialists if further treatment is necessary, or in some cases, they can treat the entire problem then and there, which does not require additional action. Continue reading to find out the most common reasons to visit an emergency dentist.
Here are a few of the most common reasons to visit an emergency dentist. Reviewing this information can be helpful to anyone, but especially those who are often in situations that might put them at a higher risk of injury.
People break their teeth all the time due to injuries from sports, physical activity, and simple accidents, such as falling. Sometimes, when a tooth breaks, it just cracks, which is not necessarily an emergency. However, if a tooth cracks in half, shatters, or results in sharp edges, it is necessary to see an emergency dentist as soon as possible.
It is advised to keep any fragments or pieces of the broken tooth that have fallen out in the event that the emergency dentist can repair it. Small breaks might be salvageable, whereas big breaks or cracks might require tooth replacement. Either way, the dentist can diagnose the type of break and provide immediate treatment.
Another reason to visit an emergency dentist is if the patient is experiencing extreme toothache or pain. While small amounts of dull or sharp pain in the teeth might not require emergency treatment, severe aching or pain should not be neglected for long.
Aches and pains in the teeth that are dull or sharp can indicate a severe infection, which will only worsen if treatment is not provided. Toothaches often go ignored, which can lead to the need for further treatment. An emergency dentist can diagnose the issue and then provide the necessary treatment for it.
A dental abscess is one of the most serious problems that an emergency dentist deals with and treats. When an abscess forms, it is usually a pocket of infected pus in the tooth, on the gums, or in the actual bone. Wherever the abscess is located will determine the type of treatment that is required. Regardless, it is a good idea to get to an emergency dentist quickly. If an abscess goes without treatment for too long, it can burst, which can be painful and cause the infection to spread, ultimately leading to further complications that will be expensive and painful.
Another reason to visit an emergency dentist is if a tooth completely comes out of the oral cavity. This might be due to an injury to the face or because a tooth is in such bad health that it ultimately falls out. Tooth loss can result in severe problems, such as gum infection, root infection, and the need to undergo serious treatment, such as replacement.
If and when a tooth falls out, it is necessary to get to an emergency dentist immediately so action can be taken to repair or replace it. Putting the dislodged tooth in milk or back into the socket is advised until the emergency dentist can begin treatment.
If you feel that you are suffering from a dental emergency but are not 100% sure, it is highly recommended to consult with an emergency dentist or at least contact the office. Calling can be helpful because this way, we can help determine whether a visit to the emergency dentist is warranted. Additionally, we can help provide more resources on ways to prevent a dental emergency from occurring, answer any of your questions, and/or address any of your concerns.
To find out more or schedule an appointment, contact us today. We would be happy to help!
Request an appointment here: https://www.carmelsmilesdentist.com or call Smiles in the Village Dentistry at (317) 575-6101 for an appointment in our Carmel office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Emergency Dentist in Carmel, IN.
Wondering whether a damaged tooth constitutes a dental emergency? Read on to find out. A damaged tooth may be considered a dental emergency if it causes severe and borderline intolerable discomfort (pain, swelling, sensitivity), causes a severe cosmetic issue, or is at risk of worsening complications, such as the loss of the tooth or the…
A toothache can do more than cause you pain and swelling. A painful tooth means a possible infection that can cause fever, earache, and migraine. If left untreated, a toothache can cause serious complications to your health. Recurring tooth pain should be taken seriously and requires the attention of a dental professional.Dentists treat each case…
Though they can be extremely painful, not every unexpected dental issue necessitates a visit to an emergency dentist. Whether you wake up in the middle of the night with tooth pain, or if you were in a sports accident that damaged a tooth, you may be wondering if you need immediate attention. Knowing when to…
An emergency dentist can save your bacon in a pinch. Not only can they resolve the pain from a dental emergency, they often provide a permanent fix as well. The dentist can salvage your tooth before you lose it and head off a bad infection before it spreads. There are many other reasons to keep…
Cosmetic dentists offer a variety of treatments that enhance the appearance of your smile. While these procedures are typically elective rather than essential, some cosmetic dental treatments also provide restorative benefits, improving the overall function of your teeth. Understanding these common treatments can help you decide which one is right for you.Over time, teeth can…
A CEREC dentist uses advanced dental technology to give patients high-quality restorations in a single appointment. This technology is revolutionizing the way crowns, veneers, and other dental restorations are made. If you value efficiency, precision, and convenience, working with a CEREC dentist can transform your dental care experience.CEREC, which stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of…