Dental emergencies can happen at any time, often without warning. While some dental issues can wait for a routine appointment, others require immediate attention. Knowing when to call an emergency dentist can help prevent further damage, reduce pain, and save your teeth. In this article, we’ll go over the signs that you need to seek emergency dental care in London.
1. Severe Tooth Pain
Severe, persistent tooth pain is one of the most common reasons people seek emergency dental care. If your toothache is sudden, intense, or lasts longer than a day, it may be a sign of a serious issue, such as an infection or abscess. Ignoring this type of pain can lead to complications like swelling, fever, or even tooth loss.
If the pain is unbearable and over-the-counter painkillers aren’t helping, it’s important to seek immediate dental attention. An emergency dentist in London can assess the problem and recommend the best course of action.
2. Broken or Cracked Teeth
Accidents happen, and sometimes, you may find yourself with a broken or cracked tooth. A chipped tooth can be uncomfortable or even painful, depending on the extent of the damage. If the tooth is cracked or broken and causing pain, an emergency dentist can quickly assess the damage and provide treatment.
In cases where the fracture exposes the nerve, you may experience significant pain. A dental professional can treat the fracture by performing a root canal, bonding the tooth, or placing a crown, depending on the severity of the injury.
If the break is minor, an emergency dentist can offer temporary solutions to protect the tooth until a more permanent treatment can be scheduled.
3. Knocked-Out Teeth
Losing a tooth due to trauma or an accident requires urgent care. If a tooth has been knocked out, it’s important to act quickly. Time is of the essence when it comes to saving a tooth that’s been dislodged.
If the tooth is intact and you can locate it, gently rinse it under water (do not scrub it or remove any tissue attached to it) and place it back into the socket if possible. If you can’t reinsert the tooth, place it in a container with milk or saline solution and visit an emergency dentist immediately.
In some cases, the tooth may be re-implanted successfully if you act within the first hour. Prompt treatment can increase the chances of saving the tooth.
4. Bleeding Gums That Won’t Stop
Gum bleeding can be a sign of several dental issues, such as gum disease, an abscess, or an injury. While some gum bleeding may be due to brushing too hard, persistent or heavy bleeding may indicate a more serious problem that requires emergency care.
If your gums are bleeding and the bleeding doesn’t stop within a few minutes, it’s important to see a dentist. If the bleeding is accompanied by swelling, pain, or fever, you may have a gum infection that requires immediate treatment.
5. Lost or Damaged Fillings or Crowns
If a dental filling or crown falls out, it can leave your tooth exposed and vulnerable to infection or further damage. While this may not always be an emergency, if it causes pain or sensitivity, you should seek urgent care.
Without the protection of the filling or crown, your tooth is at risk of decay or damage. An emergency dentist can temporarily replace the filling or crown to protect your tooth until a more permanent solution is possible.
6. Abscesses or Swelling
An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms as a result of an infection in the tooth or gums. An abscess can cause intense pain, swelling, and redness. It’s essential to treat abscesses as soon as possible, as they can lead to more serious health issues if left untreated.
If you notice swelling or a painful bump near your gums or around your tooth, it could indicate an abscess. In this case, you should visit an emergency dentist right away. Prompt treatment is important to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the body.
7. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold That Won’t Go Away
While occasional tooth sensitivity to hot or cold may be normal, prolonged or extreme sensitivity can indicate a dental problem. If you experience persistent sensitivity or pain when consuming hot or cold food or drinks, it could be a sign of a deeper issue, such as tooth decay, an exposed nerve, or a cracked tooth.
If the sensitivity doesn’t subside after a few days or worsens over time, it’s time to visit an emergency dentist. Left untreated, this condition can progress into a more serious issue requiring more invasive treatment.
8. Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing
If you experience difficulty swallowing, breathing, or opening your mouth, this can indicate a severe dental emergency, often associated with an infection or swelling. In some cases, infections in the mouth or jaw can cause the tissues to swell, making it difficult to breathe or swallow properly.
This is a serious situation that requires immediate dental attention. Seek emergency care as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the body.
9. Lost Retainer or Braces Issues
If you wear braces or a retainer and experience issues such as a broken wire or lost retainer, you may not need immediate treatment unless the issue is causing pain or discomfort. However, if a broken wire is poking into the inside of your cheek or causing discomfort, you may need to visit an emergency dentist for relief.
In many cases, the dentist can help reposition the wire or provide a temporary solution to avoid further injury to your mouth.
10. Severe Jaw Pain
Pain or swelling in the jaw can be a sign of a variety of issues, including an impacted wisdom tooth, an abscess, or even a jaw fracture. If you’re experiencing severe jaw pain, especially after an injury or trauma, it’s important to seek emergency dental care right away.
Severe jaw pain can interfere with your ability to eat, talk, or even breathe comfortably. An emergency dentist can assess your condition and recommend the necessary treatment to relieve pain and prevent further complications.
Conclusion
Knowing when to visit an emergency dentist can make a significant difference in preventing further damage and alleviating pain. If you experience any of the signs listed above, it’s important to seek prompt dental care in London. Whether you’re dealing with severe tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, or an abscess, emergency dental care can help protect your oral health and prevent more serious issues down the line.
