Dental problems can be quite common, especially if you neglect your oral health and don't see a dentist in a while. But, how can you tell if your tooth pain is a regular dental problem or a dental emergency that requires immediate attention?
Certain issues, such as knocked-out teeth or oral trauma are evident emergencies. But, when it comes to more common issues, such as toothaches, bleeding gums, or a loose tooth, you may be tempted to postpone seeing a dentist.
But, should you?
Here's how to tell if your dental problem is an emergency.
Tooth pain, gum problems, and jaw pain are some of the dental problems that need to be evaluated and treated by a dentist.
But how can you know if what you are experiencing constitutes a dental emergency and requires immediate attention?
Here are a few signs that can indicate that you have a dental emergency:
If you notice your gums are bleeding or they are swollen and painful or tender it might be a sign of gingivitis or periodontal disease. If your gums bleed after brushing your teeth or you sense a strong smell in your mouth when flossing, it is better to see your dentist right away and get the proper care.
Bleeding gums may not affect your oral health immediately, but if left untreated for too long, they can lead to tooth loss.
Dental infections can have consequences on your overall health too as the bacteria can enter your bloodstream and travel to different organs.
If you notice swelling in your gums or face as well as pain, get in touch with your dentist to get immediate treatment and cure the infection.
Tooth pain can vary from mild to debilitating. If your pain radiates to the neck, jaw, and even ear, then that's a sign that you need to be treated by a dentist immediately. Get proper care as soon as possible to avoid other oral health problems.
A loose tooth needs urgent dental care. This is a sign that your gums are weak, and are not able to support the tooth properly. While you may not be able to save the loose tooth, by treating the cause you will prevent other teeth from falling.
If you sense a metallic taste in your mouth and you have dental fillings, this can be a sign that the filling is broken or loose. This is a threat to your oral health as it can lead to infections or other conditions.
Dental problems need to be taken seriously to avoid major oral health issues.
If you have any dental problems, you can come to DentAllon Dentistry. Contact us today, tell us about your problem, and book an urgent appointment.