Most people will experience a dental emergency at some point in their lives. Whether it’s a toothache, a lost filling, or a chipped tooth, dental emergencies can be both painful and daunting. So, when do you need to seek immediate dental treatment?
If you’re experiencing pain, it’s important first to assess the severity. If the pain is mild and can be alleviated with over-the-counter medication, it’s probably not a dental emergency.
However, if the pain is severe, there is swelling or bleeding, and it persists despite medication, you should see a dentist as soon as possible.
Most people will experience a dental emergency at some point in their lives. Whether it’s a toothache, a lost filling, or a chipped tooth, dental emergencies can be both painful and daunting. So, when do you need to seek immediate dental treatment?
If you’re experiencing pain, it’s important first to assess the severity. If the pain is mild and can be alleviated with over-the-counter medication, it’s probably not a dental emergency.
However, if the pain is severe, there is swelling or bleeding, and it persists despite medication, you should see a dentist as soon as possible.
If we can treat the issue immediately, we will. Otherwise, we will make a treatment plan with you.
Depending on the severity of the dental emergency, your treatment may be as simple as taking over-the-counter pain medication, applying a cold compress or ice pack to reduce swelling. Following are some common dental emergencies:
A broken or knocked-out tooth can be a very discomforting experience. Not only can it cause pain, but it can also lead to bleeding and swelling. If the tooth can be located, immediately submerge it in milk (Do not wash or rinse the tooth in water) and arrange to come in. We may be able to re-implant the tooth.
Wisdom tooth pain is often caused by the wisdom teeth pushing against other teeth, and it can persist for days or even weeks. In some cases, the pain may escalate and be a sign of a more serious dental problem, so it’s important to see a dentist if the pain persists or you’re experiencing excruciating tooth pain.
If you chip or break a tooth, it’s important to collect any pieces of the tooth and submerge them in milk. You can rinse your mouth with warm water. If there is bleeding, apply pressure with a clean cloth. You should then see a dentist for further treatment.
If your child has had an accident resulting in a broken tooth, bleeding or swelling, please do not hesitate to book an after-hours or emergency dental appointment. Even if it is a baby tooth, it’s important that these issues are addressed with your dentist immediately to prevent more serious dental problems.
If a filling falls out, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. Lost fillings can cause the tooth to become sensitive to hot and cold temperatures and cause discomfort or pain. If indicated, you could take over-the-counter pain medication and book an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible to replace the filling.
With proper care, most dental emergencies can be resolved quickly and without lasting damage. However, if left untreated, they can lead to more serious dental problems.
The goal of emergency dental care is to alleviate immediate dental pain or discomfort, which will give you time to organise follow-up care if it’s needed.
Depending on the severity of the dental emergency, your treatment may be as simple as applying a cold compress or ice pack to reduce swelling.
In more serious cases, emergency dental care may involve root canals, crowns, or even surgery. No matter what the situation, emergency dental care is always tailored to the specific needs of the patient.
Should I go to the Emergency Room?
In general, you should go to the Hospital Emergency if you’re experiencing a life-threatening injury or infection, or if your dental pain is part of a wider, more severe issue. You should always prioritise any head trauma or injury and immediately present at hospital emergency.
If your issue or pain is isolated to your teeth, gums or mouth, please make an appointment to see your dentist immediately.
Book an appointment online with our dentists today.
Monday: 8:00am to 7:00pm
Tuesday: 8:00am to 7:00pm
Wednesday: 8:00am to 5:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am to 6:00pm
Friday: 8:00am to 5:00pm
Saturday: By appointment
Sunday: Closed
Smileologie
914 Stanley Street East
EAST BRISBANE, QLD, 4169
Phone: (07) 3392 1942
Email: smiles@smileologie.com.au