With so many different kinds of dental concerns, it can be hard to decide which ones are emergencies. In more serious cases, waiting a day to see the dentist can be the difference in whether or not you get to keep your tooth. Not sure how to determine which is serious and which can wait? Read on to find out.

Signs You Need Emergency Dental Care

Here are 4 reasons that you should make an emergency dentist appointment as soon as possible.

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You have a broken tooth

If your tooth is only chipped and you experience no pain, there’s no need to call an emergency dentist. Generally, a broken or knocked-out permanent tooth will cause extreme pain. Seeking urgent dental care will not only help with pain management, but it may help save your tooth. In the case that the entire tooth was knocked out, place it in a cup of milk until you are able to receive emergency dental care. This will increase the chances of preserving and reinserting the tooth.

‍You have a toothache

Unexplained, persistent, and severe toothaches can be a sign of gum disease and infection. If the aching is minor, try some at-home solutions first. But if the severity increases or the aching does not go away, it’s time to call your emergency dentist. Worst-case scenario, you may have an abscessed tooth. Feel around the gums to see if there is a bump near the tooth causing you pain. Other signs to watch for include fever, tooth sensitivity, and swelling in the mouth or face. If you have any of these symptoms, find an emergency dental clinic immediately.

‍You have bleeding gums

It’s not abnormal for gums to bleed a little after flossing or if you have been diagnosed with gum disease. But if the bleeding is extreme, continuous, and coupled with pain or swelling it’s important to see your dentist. Unexplained bleeding could be a sign of periodontal disease.

‍Your jaw or mouth is swollen

A swollen jaw can be a result of a number of things. It could be caused by infection, swollen lymph nodes, and in extremely rare cases it may be a result of cancer. As mentioned, this is also a sign of gum disease. Since there is no way for you to know which is causing the swelling, it is best to schedule an emergency dental appointment.

Do you need immediate dental care?

If you are experiencing any kind of abnormality in your teeth, gums, or mouth, it is important to seek emergency dental care. Early detection of any issues is important for your oral health and overall wellbeing. Westfield Family Dental is an emergency dental office that offers this kind of care. Take advantage of our services by calling (608) 296-2323 to schedule an appointment with our emergency dentists, Dr. Ramotar or Dr. Crawford.

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