A dental emergency can vary in type and severity, leaving many patients wondering when to seek professional help. Tooth pain may be minimal, but a more serious problem can exist beneath the surface – one that requires immediate care if worsening symptoms are to be avoided. How can you know when to call and schedule an emergency visit? Keep reading to find out.
What is the Difference Between Urgent & Non-Urgent Dental Emergencies?
A chipped tooth, a lost dental filling, a broken denture, or a knocked-out tooth are types of dental emergencies, but each varies in severity and urgency. Here’s how you can tell the difference between urgent and non-urgent injuries:
Urgent Dental Emergencies
- A knocked-out tooth
- A chipped, cracked, or broken tooth that is resulting in severe pain
- An intense toothache
- A partially dislodged tooth
- A dental abscess (infection)
Non-Urgent Dental Emergencies
- A lost dental filling or crown
- A soft tissue laceration (i.e., bitten tongue or lip)
- Food that is stuck between your teeth
- A chipped or broken tooth that is not causing pain
A few instances require immediate medical attention at the local emergency room before seeing a trusted dentist. These include a broken or fractured jaw, bleeding that doesn’t stop after 10 minutes, or excessive swelling that prevents you from being able to breathe freely.
What Steps Should You Take When Faced with a Dental Emergency?
You can start by calling your dentist’s office and explaining your situation and symptoms to a member of the dental team. Their evaluation will help them determine how quickly you should be seen.
Timelier injuries, like a knocked-out tooth or severe tooth pain, will likely have you seeing a dentist the same day, whereas a lost dental filling or bitten lip may require you to wait a few days.
In the meantime, your dental team will provide tips for you to follow at home so that you don’t cause further damage to your smile. This can mean taking over-the-counter pain relievers, avoiding certain foods, or chewing on one side of your mouth.
Once you arrive for your appointment, your dentist will begin by examining your mouth and creating a treatment plan. If you are satisfied with the recommendation, you can expect your dentist to improve the health and function of your smile.
Not all dental emergencies require same-day treatment, but never assume your injury is “nothing important.” Instead, call your dental office and let one of the professionals decide.
About Grand Dental – Lake Zurich
Our team at Grand Dental – Lake Zurich consists of qualified emergency dentists who can quickly address many of the most common dental injuries. From chipped and cracked teeth to lost dental crowns, sensitive teeth, and more, we can administer appropriate care in a timely fashion. If you are suffering from a dental emergency and need help to determine whether you need to see a dentist right away, visit our website or call (847) 443-3953 to schedule an appointment.