Dental problems do not always happen at convenient times. A severe toothache may begin at night, a tooth can break while eating, or an injury can suddenly damage your smile.
Knowing what qualifies as a dental emergency can help you decide when to contact a dentist for urgent care.
If you live in Sumner, WA, here are eight situations that may require prompt dental attention.
1. Severe or Persistent Tooth Pain
A toothache that is severe, sudden, or continues to get worse should not be ignored.
Tooth pain can be caused by cavities, an infection, a cracked tooth, damaged dental work, or other conditions. While the cause cannot be determined without an examination, persistent pain is a good reason to contact a dentist.
If pain is interfering with eating, sleeping, or your daily activities, seek dental care as soon as possible.
2. A Broken or Cracked Tooth
Teeth can crack or break because of an injury, biting down on something hard, tooth decay, or normal wear.
A damaged tooth may cause pain or sensitivity, but some cracks may not cause obvious symptoms at first.
A dentist can examine the tooth and determine whether you need a filling, crown, root canal, extraction, or another treatment.
3. A Knocked-Out Tooth
A tooth that has been completely knocked out requires prompt attention.
If possible, handle the tooth carefully by the crown rather than the root. Avoid scrubbing the tooth and contact a dentist immediately for instructions.
The sooner a knocked-out tooth is evaluated, the sooner your dentist can determine what treatment options may be available.
4. Significant Swelling Around the Tooth or Face
Swelling around a tooth, gums, or face can sometimes be associated with a dental infection.
An untreated infection can become more serious, so swelling should not simply be ignored.
If you have facial swelling accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek emergency medical care immediately.
5. A Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is an infection that can develop around a tooth or in the surrounding tissues.
Possible symptoms can include:
- Severe tooth pain
- Swelling
- Gum tenderness
- A bad taste in the mouth
- Sensitivity
- Fever
A dentist can evaluate the affected area and determine the appropriate treatment.
6. A Lost Filling or Crown
A filling or crown that falls out can leave the underlying tooth exposed.
You may experience sensitivity or discomfort, particularly when eating or drinking. Even if there is no pain, contacting your dentist is recommended so the tooth can be evaluated and repaired.
Until you receive professional advice, avoid chewing hard foods on the affected side.
7. A Loose or Damaged Tooth
Adult teeth should not normally become loose.
A loose permanent tooth can result from an injury, gum disease, infection, or other dental problems. Prompt evaluation can help determine the cause and whether the tooth can be stabilized or treated.
If the tooth became loose because of an accident or impact, contact a dentist promptly.
8. An Injury to Your Mouth, Gums, or Teeth
Sports injuries, falls, accidents, and other impacts can damage your teeth and surrounding tissues.
Even when there is little pain, a dental examination may be helpful after significant trauma. Some dental injuries are not immediately obvious.
Wearing a properly fitted athletic mouthguard during sports can also help protect your teeth from injury.
What Should You Do During a Dental Emergency?
The first step is to stay calm and contact your dental office.
Explain what happened, what symptoms you are experiencing, and when the problem started. Your dental team can help determine how quickly you should be seen.
Avoid attempting to repair a broken tooth or dental restoration yourself. Do not place aspirin directly against your gums or tooth, as this can irritate the tissue.
For severe swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or a suspected jaw fracture, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Can You Wait Until Your Regular Dental Appointment?
It depends on the problem.
A minor issue may not require same-day treatment, while severe pain, significant swelling, trauma, or a knocked-out tooth may require prompt evaluation.
When you are unsure whether your symptoms qualify as a dental emergency, contacting a dental office is a good first step.
Emergency Dental Care in Sumner, WA
Dental emergencies can be stressful, especially when they happen outside your normal routine.
Complete Dental Care of Sumner provides emergency dental care for problems such as toothaches, chipped or cracked teeth, knocked-out teeth, lost fillings or crowns, loose teeth, and other urgent dental concerns. The practice also promotes convenient emergency appointments, including weekend availability.
The office is located at 1006 Fryar Ave, Suite A, Sumner, WA 98390.
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, contact Complete Dental Care of Sumner to discuss your symptoms and schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a dental emergency?
Severe tooth pain, significant swelling, knocked-out teeth, serious dental injuries, broken teeth, and certain infections can require urgent dental attention.
Should I go to the ER for a toothache?
Many dental emergencies can be treated by a dentist. However, severe swelling that affects breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, or a suspected jaw fracture may require emergency medical care.
Can a cracked tooth wait?
It depends on the severity of the crack and your symptoms. A cracked tooth should be evaluated by a dentist, particularly if you have pain, sensitivity, or swelling.
What should I do if my tooth gets knocked out?
Contact a dentist immediately and follow their instructions for handling and preserving the tooth while you seek care.
How can I prevent dental emergencies?
Regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene, wearing a sports mouthguard during athletic activities, and avoiding habits such as chewing ice can help reduce the risk of some dental emergencies.
