If you experience pain in your smile, should you visit the dentist? Unlike other medical conditions that can get better with time, dental problems will only grow worse if left untreated. That’s why it’s important to be able to recognize when you’re having a true dental emergency. But how can you tell the difference between routine discomfort and a painful emergency? Keep reading to learn some common warning signs you can be on the lookout for.
You Have a Loose Tooth
One of the easiest ways to know if you’re having a real dental emergency is a loose tooth. If you prolong treatment, this problem can lead to tooth loss. Adult teeth should always be firmly rooted in the jaw, so when a tooth becomes loose, it is cause for real concern. This can occur as a result of dental injury or facial trauma, but loose teeth can also happen if there is severe infection in your mouth. Gum disease can spread to the jaw, deteriorating the bone so it doesn’t support your teeth properly. In any case, you should visit your dentist immediately if you notice loose teeth or changes in your bite.
Experiencing a Severe Toothache
If you have a toothache, your first step is to floss and rinse your mouth. Sometimes, the problem may just be an irritating piece of food stuck in between teeth. If your pain persists, you probably have a toothache that requires a visit to your dentist. Toothaches are typically caused by poor dental hygiene over time, which can cause painful infection. This issue should be treated as soon as possible by visiting your dentist for a root canal. They can successfully remove infected or damaged tissue without having to completely extract the tooth.
Extreme Sensitivity
Did you eat/drink something hot or cold only to be greeted by pain or sensitivity? This may require a trip to your emergency dentist, so the problem doesn’t get worse. Extreme sensitivity can often tip off a toothache, a lost filling, a loose crown, or other serious dental emergencies. In some of these cases, you may be able to use dental cement or sugarless gum as temporary protection for the sensitive area in your smile. However, there is no substitute for high quality care from your dentist.
You’re Affected by a Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is usually incredibly painful because it’s an infection that can get deep in your tooth roots. Typically, this problem is caused by untreated tooth decay or gum disease. You may notice a pimple-like bump near the tooth as a common symptom, but you may also have a fever or a foul taste in your mouth. If you recognize any of these signs, call your dentist right away for treatment.
So how do you know if you’re having a dental emergency? Remember this useful information to take the right steps for a safe smile if a problem does occur.
About the Practice
Dr. James A. Maurer and Dr. Dan J. Maurer are a father and son team of dentists who have all of the emergency services you need to get out of pain and back to smiling. If you have any questions, they can be reached through their website or by phone at (303) 772-7000.