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Are you experiencing a dental emergency? Here is how to tell…
In general, any dental problem that is in need of immediate treatment to alleviate severe pain, save a tooth, or stop bleeding would fall under a dental emergency. This example would also apply to severe infections that could be life-threatening.
When there is an issue with your teeth, it can be really hard to know if you should see an emergency dentist right away or if you are good to wait. When dealing with a dental issue, your dentist is the first person you should always call.
In our Grand Rapids, MI dentists experience they have seen a high number of patients who typically visit an emergency room or urgent care instead of visiting a dentist. According to the American Dental Association, most emergency rooms and urgent care facilities do not have dentists on staff to treat dental emergencies.
Their only option is to prescribe a mild pain killer and sometimes an antibiotic, which do not treat the source of the patients pain. 39% of these patients have to return to the emergency room at some point for more treatment, as their primary dental needs were not adequately addressed.
If you have any of these symptoms, you may very well be experiencing a dental emergency. Call your Grand Rapids, MI dental office immediately and describe your situation.
What is considered a
dental emergency?
- Severe Dental Pain
- Painful Tooth Fracture
- Knocked-Out Teeth
- Swollen or Bleeding Gums
- Swollen Jaw or Mouth
- Abscess of Infection Resulting in Swelling
- Exposed Nerves
- Missing Filling or Broken Crown
Does any of that describe your current situation? Give us a call, our Grand Rapids, MI emergency dentists would be happy to help!
Did You Know…
A tooth infection can spread to other parts of your body and cause further dental issues if left untreated.
Need Emergency Treatment In Grand Rapids, MI?
Dental emergencies can cause your daily life to grind to a quick halt. Pain, swelling, and other symptoms make it very difficult, if not impossible for you to focus on work, cherish time with friends and family, and even consume a balanced diet. That’s why it is important to seek dental treatment for your dental emergency as soon as possible — before the problem gets more extensive and leads to potentially life-threatening complications. But how exactly should you handle these situations? Let’s examine some FAQs regarding urgent oral health problems.
I am experiencing a dental emergency. How soon should I see a dentist?
The simple answer, see an emergency dentist as soon as you can. Receiving swift care is especially important in the case that there is trauma like a tooth was knocked out; if you receive care within an hour or so, it may be possible for your Grand Rapids, MI emergency dentist to splint it back in place and save the tooth. In some situations, such as if your filling fell out, you may be able to practice self-care for a day or two before you visit with your dentist.
I have a chipped or broken tooth. Should I see an emergency dentist?
It is possible that you are not in any pain, but don’t wait until it hurts! It is important to ensure you see an emergency dentist as soon as you can. The internal and sensitive portions of the tooth may now be exposed to harmful bacteria in the mouth. If the tooth is left unprotected, it may cause new decay to happen causing further damage.
What is considered a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is typically defined by pain, a large amount of discomfort, and any sudden swelling. It is important to know that oral health issues rarely solve themselves and they will not just go away. Contact your Grand Rapids, MI emergency dentist as soon as possible if you are experiencing any of the above.
My filling fell out. What should I do?
If a filling fell out recently, do not panic. Often, losing a filling is not considered a dental emergency, however if you are experiencing pain and sensitivity in the area near or around the lost filling, it should not be ignored. Our Grand Rapids, MI emergency dentists advise not to wait longer than 3 days to see your dentist. If you do wait longer than 3 days, your tooth will be left unprotected, which may call for future treatment link a dental crown to replace it.
What should I do if my tooth was knocked out?
This is definitely cause to see an emergency dentist immediately, your tooth nerves will likely be exposed and we recommend avoiding touching the tooth. Never touch the tooth by the root, it contains important fibers necessary for proper healing. Grab the tooth by the chewing surface area. Rinse the tooth with tap water, ensuring not to scrub it. Immediately place the tooth back in the socket, if at all possible. If you are unable to place the tooth, go immediately to a dentist, bringing the tooth with you. While heading to your dentist, put the tooth back in your mouth next to your cheek or in a small container of milk *not tap water* so that the root stays moist.
My mouth has swelling. What should I do?
Swelling usually indicates an infection. If you have a hard time breathing or eyes swell, you are in need of emergency dental care immediately, you will likely need an antibiotic. Do not place heat on the affected swollen area, this may cause the infection to spread more quickly.