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A dental emergency is a dental issue that requires immediate attention and treatment. It’s a type of dental problem that you should be concerned about that cannot wait. If you are experiencing any of the problems below, seek emergency dental care to prevent complications that can have lasting consequences.

Severe Pain

There are dull toothaches and then there are severe. These are throbbing types that cause severe pain and indicate that there is a serious problem. A very painful tooth is a sign of an infection. If you wait until the next day to see a dentist, you could be looking at a more expensive procedure needed to resolve it. A chipped or cracked tooth may be able to wait a few days before seeing a dentist, but if accompanied by severe pain, then it is a dental emergency. Let the level of pain you feel be your guide.

Loose Tooth/Teeth

A loose tooth or teeth which resulted from a vehicular/transport accident, a fall, or another traumatic event should be examined by a dentist. You could have damaged a nerve or a jaw or have developed an infection from gum disease. Whatever the cause, treatment involves surgery to preserve the tooth. If the tooth/teeth fall/fall out and you are unable to reinsert it in the socket, place it in a container with milk and take it with you to your dentist.

Jaw Swelling

Another dental emergency is a swelling of the jaw, which also points to an infection. Jaw swelling may be accompanied by a fever or difficulty in breathing or swallowing.

Bleeding

Bleeding of the gums or teeth could be due to gum disease or gingivitis. Gum disease is a serious infection that damages the soft tissues of the gums.

Abscessed Tooth

A cavity left untreated could lead to an abscessed tooth. Symptoms include a bad taste in the mouth, a foul smell, the production of pus, and fever. Any type of infection is dangerous and can be life-threatening as it could spread throughout your body. Therefore, an abscessed tooth is considered a dental emergency. Treatment for this type of dental emergency often involves draining the pus. Before seeing your dentist, gargle with salt water to help relieve the symptoms.

Dr. Ernie Soto Plantation Dentist

A prevention plan can help you reduce your risk of having dental emergencies. Dr. Ernie Soto, a family, implant, and cosmetic dentist provides preventive-focused dentistry, helping maintain good oral health through patient education and regular check-ups, and early detection of dental issues to prevent future complications. Our dental team practices compassionate dental care and strives to keep you comfortable and satisfied.

For patients with dental anxiety, Dr. Soto offers sedation dentistry so that you are conscious yet relaxed during the appointment. To schedule a consultation with a Plantation dentist, call Dr. Soto’s clinic at (954) 368-6264 or request an appointment online now. Our friendly and attentive staff looks forward to serving you in our relaxing dental clinic in Plantation, Florida.