Uptown Houston Emergency Dentist

Types Of Dental Emergencies

Dental Pain

Mild dental pain doesn’t require emergency services, but pain that’s intense and isn’t helped with pain medication is usually an indicator that something is very wrong.

Broken Or Chipped Tooth

According to the Cleveland Clinic, a severe crack or sizable chip can be painful and leave the tooth vulnerable to bacterial infection, which can become serious if left untreated.

A small crack isn’t usually a dental emergency. According to the Cleveland Clinic, small cracks can be treated to prevent further issues with a porcelain veneer.

Knocked-Out Tooth

For adults, a tooth falling out is always a dental emergency. Reimplantation won’t be possible if not treated quickly. For the best chance of reimplantation, see the first aid section below.

Lost Filling Or Crown

According to Colgate, the remaining tooth left behind when a filling or crown falls out isn’t strong enough to be left unprotected. Therefore, getting to a same-day dentist appointment is best to protect the tooth and reduce your risk of infection. After you’ve called the emergency dentist, the Cleveland Clinic recommends the following:

• For dental crowns: Try to locate the crown, rinse it off with clean water, and try sticking it back in with dental cement, denture adhesive, or toothpaste. DON’T use glue.
• For fillings: Coat the tooth with dental cement or put a piece of sugar-free gum in the hole until you get to the dentist.

An Abscessed Tooth

According to the Mayo Clinic, an abscessed tooth is generally caused by an untreated cavity leading to a bacterial infection spreading to the gums. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the jaw and the rest of the body. Symptoms of an abscessed tooth to look out for include:

• Continuous throbbing pain
• Temperature sensitivity in the tooth
• Fever
• Swelling in the face/mouth
• Lymph nodes that are swollen and/or tender
• An unpleasant smell in your mouth

To prevent cavities that can lead to abscesses, always follow approved oral hygiene practices, have a complete dental exam once a year, and regularly see a dental hygienist for cleanings.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries are injuries to your lips, cheeks, or gums. If you’re experiencing a soft tissue injury, take these steps to try to stop the bleeding:

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
• Press a moist piece of gauze or a moist caffeinated tea bag to the affected area for 15-20 minutes
• Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek for 5-10 minutes
• If the bleeding doesn’t stop, continue holding clean gauze on the affected area and get to the dentist or emergency room ASAP