Tooth pain can be quite unpleasant, but it isn’t always an emergency. Before you rush to the dentist in the middle of the night, you need to determine if you have an actual emergency on your hands.
When to Seek Immediate Dental Help
Certain situations require rapid aid. You should seek help if you have any of the following:
Swelling:
If you notice a swelling on your face or cheek, inside or outside of your mouth, and it is spreading, seek help. You should let the dentist know that swelling is expanding, particularly if it is moving down the neck or up to the eye.
Mouth Ulcers:
Mouth ulcers are not usually dangerous, but you will want to talk to a dentist if you have had an ulcer for over two weeks and it’s not healing.
Tooth Loss:
If your tooth has been knocked out, you can take it to the dentist immediately and see if it’s possible to replace it.
Severe Pain:
Regular tooth pain is not usually an emergency, but if you have such strong pain that it is just getting worse, it’s time to get help. If the pain is bad enough to prevent sleep, it’s strong enough to require an emergency appointment.
Ongoing Bleeding:
If you recently had a tooth extracted and the bleeding continues beyond 20 minutes even with pressure, seek a dentist’s help.
In general, if you are suffering from minor pain that comes and goes, you should be able to make an appointment without suffering any ill effects. This is also true for pain when you bite down and sensitive teeth.
If you have a broken or chipped tooth that is not hurting or only has a minor ache, you can usually wait. You should also make an appointment if you have a lost crown or a veneer. These are not emergencies, so you can make an appointment for the nearest time and then wait. In the meantime, take painkillers to help reduce the pain.
Trauma may require a visit to A&E, particularly if you have facial trauma. If any type of facial swelling is preventing swallowing or stops you from opening your mouth, head to the hospital immediately. It’s also important to see a doctor if you have had any type of head trauma that causes unconsciousness or double vision and vomiting.
Not all dental pain is an emergency situation. Knowing the difference will help you prevent needless panic and can ensure you get the right dental attention.
Are you having a dental emergency? You need to contact Manor Road Dentiststoday.