Most Common Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies are any situations that need immediate dental care. Dental emergencies are typically caused by accidents or falls. These accidents can cause teeth to chip, break, or crack. Dental emergencies may also cause soft tissue injuries around your mouth. The common dental emergencies are as follows:

• Knocked-out tooth

A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate treatment. If you knock out a tooth, you should immediately call your dentist. Also, rinse your mouth with warm water to remove any debris. If you’re bleeding, put a piece of gauze or towel between your teeth and apply pressure. Gently try to put the tooth back in its socket. If this isn’t possible, store it in a container of salt water or milk until you see the dentist.

• Broken tooth

When a tooth breaks, it’s important to see your dentist right away. Depending on the severity of the break, they may be able to repair it with a dental crown. If your tooth was cracked already, they might recommend a root canal and crown.

If a broken tooth is not treated, it can lead to more complications, such as an infection.

• Object caught in teeth

If an object gets caught between your teeth, gently try to remove it with floss. If the object is stuck, you can try using the floss as a lasso and lasso the object out. Do not put too much pressure on the object, as you may damage your teeth.

• Abscessed tooth

An abscessed tooth is a serious infection that results when bacteria infects the dental pulp, which is the center of the tooth. This infection can become harmful very quickly, as the bacteria can spread throughout the bloodstream and affect other areas of the body.

Treatment for an abscessed tooth depends on what is causing the infection. If it is caused by a cavity, we will remove the decay and fill the cavity. If the abscess is the result of gum disease, we will remove the plaque and calculus from around the root of the tooth. In either case, we will prescribe an antibiotic to fight the infection.

• Swelling

Tooth trauma or gum disease can cause swelling and pain around the affected area. If swelling is persistent or causes difficulty eating or speaking, contact our office right away.

• Bleeding gums

An infection in your mouth can lead to bleeding gums. An infection can cause your gums to recede if left untreated. In addition to bleeding gums, other symptoms include swelling, sore gums, and tenderness. You should visit the dentist as soon as possible if you experience bleeding gums, as there could be a deeper issue. Your dentist will be able to determine the cause of your bleeding gums, as well as treat the problem.

• Toothache

A toothache can be a sign of infection in your tooth. Left untreated, it can lead to an abscessed tooth, which is a serious medical condition. To treat a toothache, rinse your mouth with salt water and use a cold compress on your cheek. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also relieve the pain. Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

• Lost dental crown

Dental crowns are a type of dental restoration that is placed on top of a tooth. A dental crown can be lost for a variety of reasons. One of the most common is a patient who bites on a hard object, such as a piece of hard candy, and damages the crown. Another cause of a dental crown falling out is a lack of adequate dental cement. Dental crowns are typically cemented onto the tooth using dental cement. If there is not enough dental cement or it is improperly placed, the dental crown may eventually fall out. If your dental crown is lost, contact your dentist; they will repair or replace it. 

• Broken jaw

A broken jaw is a serious dental emergency that requires immediate medical attention. A broken jaw occurs when the primary bone in your jaw (the mandible) has been fractured. A TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder is the most common cause of a broken jaw. In the event of a broken jaw, apply ice packs to prevent swelling, and visit the dentist. 

How To Prevent Dental Emergencies?

The best ways to prevent dental emergencies are to practice excellent oral hygiene and to visit a dental professional regularly. Practicing good oral hygiene includes brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once daily. Visiting a dentist twice a year can prevent many dental emergencies.

At Kennedy Heights Dental Centre, we strive to provide our patients with a positive and relaxing experience. If you're ready to experience the best dental care, please contact us at 778.438.2084. or visit us at 11960 88 Ave, Delta, BC V4C 3C8.