Experiencing a dental emergency is one of the most painful and traumatic experiences ever. However, it is undeniable that those who care more about their oral health face fewer emergency dental issues. And unfortunately, as a registered emergency dentist in Toronto informs us, about 25 percent of people living in Canada do not care about their oral health enough and face severe and sudden emergency dental issues as well. The following infographic published at Walk In Dental Clinic explains the statistics on dental emergencies.
Most people become frightened and freaked out as they don’t know what to do, so they usually make wrong decisions. They don’t have enough information about who they should call and what they should do to save the damaged tooth. Dental emergencies need to be handled immediately; otherwise, you can face the consequences like tooth loss, dental infection and other severe health problems. Visiting an emergency dentist is an excellent option to save your tooth when you experience a dental emergency. They are educated and well-trained to treat patients whose teeth are damaged and can prevent further dental problems. This article provides you with all the necessary information to handle your dental emergency.
How Much Is It Urgent?
Not all oral issues are dental emergencies; you can delay visiting your dentist if the problem isn’t urgent. You need to understand what dental emergencies are so you can visit an emergency dentist when it’s really needed. Otherwise, you don’t need to push yourself under pressure, and you can make an appointment with your dentist whenever possible. Here is a list of some common dental emergencies:
- Injures jaw
- Severe tooth sensitivity
- Persistent bleeding gums
- Painful swelling
- Swollen cheeks or face
- Loose or knocked-out tooth
- Aching toothache
These dental emergencies need to be treated immediately by an experienced dentist if you want to prevent further complications. Fortunately, most emergency dentists are available even outside of business hours, and you can contact them if you experience such problems. Some other dental problems aren’t urgent, including:
- Small tooth chip
- Broken retainer or night guard
- Mood tooth sensitivity
- Dull tooth pain
- Food lodged between teeth
In case of experiencing the above problems, you can wait a few days to receive treatment. However, visiting your dentist as soon as possible is still recommended.
Who Do You Need to Call?
Handling a dental emergency requires an emergency dentist who is knowledgeable and skilled enough. Usually, it’s better to call a reliable emergency dentist you know from before. Until you can get to your emergency dentist for an examination and treatment, you can call them and explain the situation so they can give you tips to relieve your pain. But sometimes, you must go to an emergency room if your pain is unreadable and your emergency dentist isn’t available.
How to Deal with Dental Emergencies?
It may be required for you to take steps to relieve your pain until you can see your dentist, depending on the type of dental emergency you are experiencing. Remember, the key to saving your tooth is to stay calm and relaxed so you can decide wisely.
Rinsing hot salt water
Flossing your teeth
Reducing swelling and pain with a cold compress
Taking over-the-counter medication
Don’t forget to have an excellent dental hygiene routine so the risk of dental emergencies will be significantly reduced. Also, have regular checkups with your dentist once in a while to ensure everything is okay!