Aches and pains are a normal part of everyday life. A twinge here and there is nothing to worry about when it comes to your body or your mouth in general. But, prolonged or severe pain can be a bad sign and quite distressing to deal with. Many people are hesitant when considering visiting an emergency dentist, questioning, “Is it really bad enough to class as an emergency?”
If you are experiencing any of the following, then you may require a visit to an emergency dentist:
When we suffer from toothache it’s easy to think that the pain is quite severe, though it may not be. Toothache is immediate pain. It’s hard to ignore a pain which you’re constantly aware of it, so it can be overestimated in some cases. However, if you are experiencing severe and prolonged pain, then an emergency appointment is necessary.
The causes of severe toothache vary and so too will the treatment; a quick diagnosis is vital to put you on the path to permanent relief.
Adults who experience wobbly teeth need to seek a dentist. Wobbly teeth can be a sign of bigger problems; such as trauma, infection or gum disease. If the loose tooth is a result of trauma then you may require an emergency dentist. This is to check if there is any underlying jaw or nerve damage, as early diagnosis can work quickly to resolve the issue or help prevent it from getting worse.
If the issue is due to an infection or gum disease, an emergency appointment is not likely necessary. However, it is important to see a dentist and oral hygienist as soon as possible to start treating the issue.
Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing aren’t necessarily normal, but it can be a sign of brushing too hard. More commonly, aching gums, excessive bleeding and swelling are all signs of gum disease. In which case, you would need to see your dentist sooner rather than later to treat the issue. Though it may not require an emergency appointment.
If, however, the bleeding is excessive then you may need to seek an emergency dental appointment. Trauma or injury can cause your gums to bleed and you may need to check the damage is not extensive, otherwise, it may cause further dental issues if left untreated.
If you are suffering from swelling outside of your gums or teeth directly, such as in your jaw or cheek, then this is a sign that you may require emergency dentistry. A swollen jaw can be a sign of a serious infection. You must seek out a dentist to diagnose and treat the issue as soon as possible.
Have you had a painful tooth that suddenly becomes numb? If so, it could be a sign that the problem has developed and the infection may have spread to the root of your tooth. This could indicate the need for a root canal.
If a toothache does develop to the point of numbness, then you should seek an emergency dentist immediately.
Here at Dental Solutions, we pride ourselves on the full range of treatments on offer for our patients. Including a dedicated emergency dentist service; wherever possible we try to ensure same-day appointments if a dentist is available.
Are you experiencing any of the above symptoms or other issues that might require an emergency appointment, contact our Reception team now on 01925 756565 or by filling out the contact form.
