Oral health emergencies can happen unexpectedly, and knowing when to seek immediate treatment is crucial. At Precision Dentistry of Olympia, we understand the importance of prompt action in a dental emergency in Olympia, as it can prevent further damage and alleviate pain and discomfort. This blog post will discuss common dental emergencies and when you should seek immediate treatment.
Severe Toothache
A severe, persistent toothache that doesn’t subside with over-the-counter pain medication can be a sign of an underlying issue, such as an infection or abscess. If you experience severe, throbbing pain, swelling, or fever, it’s essential to seek immediate dental treatment to prevent the infection from spreading.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If you’ve had a tooth knocked out due to an accident or injury, time is of the essence. Try to locate the tooth, pick it up by the crown (the white part), and rinse it off with water or milk if it’s dirty. Avoid touching the root. If possible, gently reinsert the tooth into the socket and bite down on a clean cloth or gauze to keep it in place. If you cannot reinsert the tooth, place it in a container with milk or saliva to keep it moist. Seek emergency dental care immediately, as there is a limited window of opportunity to save the tooth.
Cracked or Fractured Tooth
A cracked or fractured tooth can be incredibly painful and may expose the inner layers of the tooth, increasing the risk of infection. If you’ve experienced trauma to your mouth and notice a cracked or fractured tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Seek emergency dental treatment as soon as possible to prevent further damage and address the issue properly.
Severe Soft Tissue Injury
Injuries to the lips, cheeks, gums, or tongue can result in significant bleeding and potential complications. If you’ve experienced a severe soft tissue injury in your mouth, apply firm pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to control the bleeding. If the bleeding doesn’t stop after 15-20 minutes, seek emergency dental or medical care immediately.
Lost or Loose Fillings, Crowns, or Bridges
While not necessarily an emergency, a lost or loose filling, crown, or bridge can expose the underlying tooth structure to further damage or infection. If you’ve experienced this, it’s essential to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to have the issue addressed and prevent further complications.
At Precision Dentistry of Olympia, we prioritize your oral health and well-being. We can enhance the patient experience using digital dentistry.
If you’re unsure whether your situation constitutes a dental emergency, please contact us at (360) 995-0025. We’ll guide you through the appropriate course of action and provide prompt treatment to alleviate your discomfort and prevent further complications.
You may also want to read our post about what to do with an after-hours dental emergency.
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