May 26, 2023
Picture this: in an effort to become healthier, you start munching on handfuls of cashews in between meals instead of your go-to potato chips. You’re feeling great about your choice until one day, you bite into cashew and hear a sudden, loud crunch! One of your teeth begins throbbing with excruciating pain. Glancing at your mouth in the mirror reveals that your tooth is now cracked. How can your emergency dentist in Winslow treat this problem? Continue reading to learn about three of the most common dental emergencies and their treatments.
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
Every year, millions of Americans suffer from dental issues that seemingly arise out of nowhere. Because they can be fairly common, it can be difficult to ascertain whether your problem needs immediate care or if it can be alleviated with a home remedy until your next appointment. While every kind of dental problem will eventually require treatment from your dentist, true dental emergencies are situations that are extremely painful or even life-threatening. Call your dentist right away if you have serious discomfort along with swelling, fever, or bleeding.
The 3 Most Common Dental Emergencies (and How Your Dentist Can Help)
Some of the most prevalent dental emergencies include:
- Tooth pain: Persistent toothaches are incredibly common. The cause of your discomfort could range from a small object getting trapped between your teeth to a serious infection known as an abscess. As such, there can be a wide variety of treatments. If the pain remains after brushing and flossing, have your dentist conduct a thorough exam to determine the best course of action.
- Broken tooth: Although tooth enamel is the strongest material in the human body, it can still fracture. After your dentist address any pain and swelling, they can heal the tooth with a restorative solution, such as a dental crown.
- Knocked-out tooth: If your tooth has been fully dislodged, you need to get to your dentist’s office within an hour in order to have the highest chance of successfully replanting it. If the tooth cannot be saved, your dentist can seamlessly restore your smile with a dental implant or bridge.
Dental emergencies can be a major source of anxiety. However, try your best to stay calm and call your dentist promptly. That way, you can get the care your smile needs and relieve your discomfort in a timely manner!
About the Author
Dr. Richard Baker is a dentist in Winslow, AZ with more than 40 years of experience and counting. Since earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1977 from Case Western Reserve University, he has taken continuing education courses in multiple subjects, including sedation dentistry to calm patients’ nerves. His practice, Dental Innovations, works to schedule appointments for emergency patients as soon as possible. To get the emergency care you need quickly, visit Dr. Baker’s website or call 928-833-6168.