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Aside from the scheduled dental visits to clean your teeth and a regular checkup, there are signs/symptoms that could mean an emergency visit to your dental health professional is in order. Some of these things could even send you to an emergency provider.
Dentists are used to nervous patients being hesitant to show up in their offices. You go to the dentist for regular toothache relief, but did you know that you can go to your dentist immediately if something feels wrong? You’re not supposed to be in pain with your teeth, but if you notice these signs, contact your dentist asap.
Pain Persists Or Becomes Unbearable
Toothaches are no joke, and that’s if they are mild or pain is intermittent. Debilitating pain is the type that is so uncomfortable that you can’t sleep, eat, or focus on work. This type of oral dysfunction must not be ignored or covered up with OTC medication. Call your dentist immediately before something worse happens. An abscessed tooth or infection can be dangerous to more than just your tooth. It can affect other body systems like the brain, nervous system, heart, and overall well-being.
Your Gums Constantly Bleed
Yes, minor gum bleeding isn’t necessarily a sign that you should rush to the emergency dental clinic, but it does need some attention. The bleeding I’m talking about is a constant flow of blood from your gums or from under a tooth. This could happen from a severe abscess, infection, or injury to the mouth. You might even consider the ER if the bleeding is severe.
You’ve Lost or Cracked a Tooth
Whether your kids have accidentally headbutted you, or you have had a tooth knocked out through sports, see an emergency dentist if you lose a tooth or have a significant crack. I had to do this years ago when a popcorn kernel cracked one of my back teeth right in two. In my case, they tried to save the tooth but ended up pulling the half that didn’t fall out.
Losing an adult tooth is no joke, and it’ll cost you some cash to replace it. Remember, your dentist may be able to save it in an emergency, and they can support you as much as possible.
Your Jaw Is Swollen
If your jaw swells to the point that it impedes eating, drinking, and functioning, it’s time to get ahold of your dentist, seek emergency dental care, or go to the ER. There are many reasons this could happen, so it’s best to seek advice as soon as possible.
You’ve Noticed a Growth or Other Unexplained Changes
This is a huge red flag for not only a dental issue but possibly things like tumors, cancer, and other systemic malfunctions. Though your primary doctor will want to know about things like this, you could start with your dentist to rule out a dental cause for the growth or abscess. Make sure to call for an appointment right away or seek emergency help if it hurts, has a pungent smell, or is obstructive to eating and drinking.
**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Women’s lifelink, its owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors, and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.
