Dental emergencies can be a stressful and painful experience, but it’s important to know that there are treatment options available to address urgent dental needs. Here are some of the most common dental emergencies we see and the treatment options available at Landmark Dental Arts in Kearny Mesa.
What are Dental Emergencies? Is it a True Emergency?
Dental emergencies can include a variety of issues, such as a chipped or knocked out tooth, an abscessed tooth, a broken filling or crown, bleeding or swollen gums, and severe toothaches. These types of issues can cause significant pain and discomfort, and should be addressed as soon as possible.
It’s important to note that not all dental issues are true emergencies. For example, a minor toothache or a small chip in a tooth may not require immediate attention. However, if you’re experiencing severe pain or discomfort, it’s best to visit an emergency dentist as soon as possible to address the issue.
Chipped and Knocked Out Teeth
A chipped tooth can occur due to a variety of causes, such as a fall or sports injury. If the chip is extremely small, it may not require immediate attention. But if it’s more noticeable, it’s best to visit an emergency dentist. If possible, find the chipped fragment, put it in a cup of milk or saline, and bring it directly to our office. A chipped tooth can sometimes be reattached or treated with a filling or a crown, depending on the extent of the damage.
A knocked-out tooth is a more serious issue and requires immediate attention. If possible, try to find the tooth and bring it with you to the emergency dentist. Again, keep it submerged in milk or saline. The tooth may be able to be re-implanted if it’s handled carefully and if our Kearny Mesa emergency dentist can see you immediately.
Abscessed Teeth and Toothaches
An abscessed tooth is an infection that develops at the root of a tooth, and it can cause both swelling and discomfort. An abscessed tooth is considered a dental emergency if it’s causing severe pain, but some abscesses may never hurt at all. Treatment options may include a root canal, antibiotics, or tooth extraction.
A severe toothache can also be a sign of an abscessed tooth or another underlying issue. If you’re experiencing severe pain or discomfort, it’s best to visit an emergency dentist to determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment. Tooth pain won’t go away on its own.
Broken Fillings or Crowns Falling Off
A broken filling or a crown that has fallen off can be a painful experience and should be addressed as soon as possible. Treatment options may include a new filling or a new crown, depending on the extent of the damage. Be sure to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth, as the exposed tooth is likely to break down more quickly if biting forces are applied.
Bleeding or Swollen Gums
Bleeding or swollen gums can be a sign of gum disease, food caught between teeth, or other underlying issues. If you’re experiencing bleeding or swollen gums, it’s best to visit our dentist at your earliest opportunity to determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment.
Rinse with warm salt water or take an anti-inflammatory to help ease symptoms before your appointment.
When to Visit an Emergency Room
In some cases, a dental emergency may be serious enough to require a visit to the nearest hospital emergency room. This may include cases of severe trauma to the face, jaw, teeth, or cases of severe bleeding or swelling.
Dental Emergency Treatment Options
At Landmark Dental Arts, we offer a variety of treatment options for dental emergencies. Such as therapeutic extractions, antibiotics, new fillings, or bonding a tooth back into place. We understand that dental emergencies can be stressful and painful experiences, and our team is dedicated to providing the best possible care to address your urgent dental needs.
Emergency Dentistry in San Diego
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency in the San Diego area, Landmark Dental Arts is here to help. Call our Kearny Mesa office today to request an appointment.