How a Dentist Takes Care of Dental Emergencies
A dental emergency can happen without warning. Whether it’s a cracked tooth, a painful swelling, or a knocked-out tooth, the first person you need to see is a dentist. These issues can be scary and painful, but knowing how a dentist handles them can make things a little easier.
Let’s take a look at what counts as a dental emergency, how a dentist deals with them, and what you should do if it happens to you.
What a Dentist Considers to as a Dental Emergency?
Not all tooth pain is an emergency. But there are some signs you shouldn’t ignore. If you’re not sure whether it’s urgent, these are common cases when a dentist recommends coming in right away:
- Tooth pain that won’t go away
- A broken or chipped tooth, especially if it hurts
- A tooth that has been knocked out
- Swelling around the face or gums
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- A lost crown or filling that causes discomfort
These problems can get worse quickly, so it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible.
How a Dentist Handles a Toothache?
One of the most common emergencies is a toothache. It might feel like a dull ache or a sharp pain. A dentist will first find out what’s causing the pain. It could be a cavity, a cracked tooth, or even an infection.
After checking your tooth, the dentist might take an X-ray to see what’s happening inside. Depending on the cause, the treatment might be as simple as a filling or, in some cases, something more like removing an infection. But the main goal is to stop the pain and protect the tooth.
What Does a Dentist Do for a Broken or Knocked-Out Tooth?
Breaking a tooth or losing one completely is a serious situation. If you still have the tooth, try to keep it clean and moist (milk works well), and get to the dentist quickly.
If the tooth can’t be saved, the dentist will look at your options, which may include replacing it with something else. If the tooth is just chipped or cracked, the fix might be a smooth patch or a crown to make it look and feel like new again.
How a Dentist Treats Swelling or Infections
Swelling in the face, gums, or jaw is often a sign of infection. This is something a dentist takes very seriously. It can spread and become dangerous if not treated quickly.
The dentist will check the swollen area and may need to drain it or give you medicine to fight the infection. In some cases, further treatment is needed to remove the infection for good. But quick action is the key here.
Before You Get to the Dentist: What You Can Do
While you’re waiting to see the dentist, there are a few things you can do:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
- Use a cold pack to reduce swelling
- If a tooth is knocked out, put it in milk and bring it with you
- For lost fillings or crowns, dental wax or sugar-free gum can cover the spot temporarily
These tips won’t solve the problem, but they can keep things from getting worse until you’re seen.
A Dentist’s Advice on Avoiding Emergencies
While accidents happen, many dental problems can be avoided with a little care:
- Don’t chew ice, hard candy, or pens
- Wear a mouthguard when playing sports
- Visit your dentist regularly to catch small issues before they grow
Listening to your dentist and keeping up with routine care is the best way to avoid painful surprises.
Final Thoughts: When to Call the Dentist
Dental emergencies can be stressful, but knowing how a dentist will help makes a big difference. Whether it’s fixing a broken tooth or treating a bad infection, fast care can save your smile and stop your pain.
If you ever face a dental emergency, don’t wait. Your dentist is trained to handle these situations and knows how to get you feeling better as quickly as possible.
If you’re looking for a trusted dentist in Kernersville, NC, it’s smart to know where to turn before an emergency happens. Having a Kernersville dentist ready to help gives you peace of mind.