Emergency dentistry refers to the immediate treatment of dental emergencies, such as toothaches, broken teeth, or lost fillings. The goal of emergency dentistry is to provide prompt relief from pain, prevent further damage, and restore oral health.
Common Dental Emergencies
Toothache: Severe tooth pain, often caused by decay, infection, or gum disease.
Broken or Chipped Tooth: A tooth that is broken or chipped, often due to trauma or decay.
Lost Filling: A filling that has come loose or fallen out.
Dental Abscess: A painful, infected pocket of pus in the gums.
Knocked-Out Tooth: A tooth that has been completely knocked out of the socket.
Broken Denture: A broken or damaged denture.
Gum Injury: Injury to the gums, such as a cut or tear.
Tooth Sensitivity: Severe sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
Emergency Dental Procedures
Emergency Extraction: Removing a tooth that is beyond repair.
Root Canal: Treating an infected tooth by removing the pulp and nerve.
Tooth Repair: Repairing a broken or chipped tooth with a filling or crown.
Dental Bonding: Repairing a broken or chipped tooth with a tooth-colored resin.
Pain Management: Providing pain relief through medication or other means.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
Call an emergency dentist: Reach out to an emergency dentist or a regular dentist who offers emergency services.
Describe the emergency: Provide as much detail as possible about the emergency.
Follow instructions: Follow any instructions provided by the dentist, such as rinsing with warm water or applying a cold compress.
Seek immediate attention: If the emergency is severe, seek immediate attention at an emergency room or urgent care center.
