Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many dental offices have temporarily suspended their normal operations. However, they may still be providing emergency and urgent care; they are ready and willing to help patients in need. But how can you tell whether you should schedule an emergency dental appointment? In this blog post, we talk about some situations that call for immediate professional care.
You Lost a Tooth
If a blow to your mouth knocks one of your teeth out, get in touch with your dentist ASAP. An avulsed (knocked-out) tooth is one of the most urgent types of dental emergencies. If you do not receive care within an hour or so, it unlikely that your dentist will be able to splint the tooth back into place.
To increase the chances of successful reattachment, pick up the tooth by its top portion and gently rinse off any debris. Then, attempt to place it back in its socket. If you cannot place the tooth comfortably back in your mouth, store it in a glass of milk or water to keep it moist until your emergency appointment.
Your Teeth Feel Loose
Trauma or advanced gum disease can cause the teeth to feel loose. Regardless of the cause of loose teeth, however, seeking prompt care is essential. Contact your emergency dentist and let them know exactly what is happening. When you arrive at your dentist’s office, they will assess the situation and do everything possible to stop you from losing your teeth altogether.
Your Mouth Is Bleeding Uncontrollably
You might be able to get the bleeding under control by yourself. Placing gauze and/or sugar-free gum over the wound can stem the flow of blood. Then, you can visit your dentist for follow-up care so they can assess whether your injury poses a long-term threat to your oral health.
If you cannot stop the bleeding on your own, or it is it obvious that extensive damage has occurred, it may be best if you visit the local emergency room. The doctors there will render initial care. Then, schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist.
You Have a Severe Toothache
In many cases, a severe, throbbing toothache is an indicator that an infection has made its way into a tooth’s interior chamber. Without treatment, the infection is likely to spread into the surrounding tissues. It may even cause systemic illness. Hence, prompt treatment is necessary. Root canal therapy, perhaps along with antibiotics, may be able to provide quick pain relief and combat the infection.
This article does not discuss every possible type of dental emergency, so if you are ever in doubt as to whether you should visit your dentist for emergency care, contact them right away. They will let you know what your next steps should be.
Meet Our Practice
At New Haven Dental Group in Hamden, we have an experienced team of dental professionals ready to serve our patients. Even though our office is temporarily closed due to COVID-19, we are working with partner practices to provide emergency and urgent care. If you have concerns or questions about your oral health, contact us right away at 203-288-8221.