How An Emergency Dentist Can Help You

Dental emergencies can strike at any moment, turning a normal day into a frenzied rush for medical attention. The panic can sometimes blur the line between what constitutes a dental emergency and what does not.

It’s important to recognize when to seek emergency dental care to save a tooth in jeopardy or ease extreme discomfort. Let’s delve deeper to understand emergency dentistry better, and when to reach out to your trusted emergency dentist in Pineville, NC.

What is Emergency Dentistry?

Emergency dentistry refers to the swift, professional dental assistance rendered to address severe tooth or oral complications that cannot wait for a regular dental appointment. This immediate service aims to alleviate pain, preserve the tooth, and prevent the escalation of potentially dangerous situations.

Dental Emergencies: What Counts?

Here, we outline a few situations that unequivocally demand the immediate attention of an emergency dentist:

1. Severe Toothache: If you experience relentless pain, it may be indicative of an underlying problem that necessitates urgent attention.
2. Chipped, Cracked or Broken Teeth: Injuries that result in damaged teeth are emergencies because they can affect the tooth’s nerve, leading to more problems if not addressed promptly.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth: A knocked-out tooth is certainly an emergency. Immediate action can potentially save the tooth.
4. Abscessed Tooth: Characterized by a severe toothache, sensitivity to temperatures, and swollen glands, an abscessed tooth can lead to systemic issues if not treated immediately.
5. Lost Filling or Crown: Though it might not involve pain, a lost filling or crown exposes your tooth to potential damage and decay.
6. Uncontrolled Bleeding: Bleeding that won’t cease after a dental procedure or accident necessitates urgent care.
7. Swollen Jaw: A swollen jaw can be a sign of a serious infection, and should be addressed immediately.

What Does Not Constitute a Dental Emergency?

And, although they can be annoying, there are dental situations where emergency dentistry might not be required. These include:

1. Mild Toothache: While discomforting, a mild toothache can typically wait for a scheduled appointment.
2. Lost Veneer: Losing a veneer isn’t usually an emergency, as it doesn’t involve pain or threaten your dental health immediately.
3. Chipped Tooth Without Pain: If the chipped tooth is not causing discomfort or does not have sharp edges that could cut your cheeks or tongue, it might not necessitate emergency care.
4. Food Lodged Between Teeth: Though it can be uncomfortable, this can often be resolved with dental floss or a similar tool at home.

The Right Steps to Take in a Dental Emergency

In case you find yourself in a dental emergency, it’s critical to stay calm and take the right steps to fix the problem.

1. Call Your Dentist: The first step should always be to call Dr. Geiger’s office and explain the situation.
2. Rinse Your Mouth: If possible, gently rinse your mouth with warm water.
3. Preserve Any Broken Pieces: If a tooth is knocked out or broken, preserve the fragments in a small container with milk or saliva.

Reach Out to Your Pineville Emergency Dentist Today

Dr. Geiger’s team at our dental clinic in Pineville, NC is equipped to provide you with the utmost care and assistance in emergencies. Our seasoned team of professionals is adept at handling a myriad of dental emergencies, ensuring that you are back to your radiant smile in no time.

Dental emergencies can be stressful and often painful. However, with knowledge comes power, the power to discern the urgency of your dental issue, and to take the necessary steps to preserve your beautiful smile.

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency in Pineville or our surrounding communities, call Dr. Geiger today to schedule your appointment!