Each year, thousands of Australians seek emergency dental care. While most cases are minor and can be resolved quickly, some dental emergencies can lead to serious complications if they are not treated promptly.
So what is considered emergency dental? Any situation that requires immediate treatment to relieve pain or prevent further damage to the teeth is considered a dental emergency. This can include anything from a fractured or knocked-out tooth to a loose filling.
Prompt dental emergency treatment is essential to preventing serious complications like infection or tooth loss. If you are unsure whether your situation is an emergency, it is always best to seek professional advice as soon as possible.
What is Considered Emergency Dental?
Dental emergencies can occur at any time. While some dental problems can wait for a scheduled appointment, others require immediate attention. Different types of dental emergencies that can occur include:
Avulsed Tooth
When a tooth is forcefully knocked out of its socket, it is known as an avulsed tooth. An avulsed tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention. If the tooth is not replanted immediately, the chances of it being successfully saved decrease significantly.
The main cause of an avulsed tooth is trauma, such as being hit in the face or taking a blow to the mouth or jaw when falling.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
Cracks and breaks can cause damage to the tooth enamel, which can lead to pain and sensitivity. Cracks and breaks can also provide an opening for bacteria to enter the tooth, which can cause infection. In some cases, a cracked or broken tooth may need to be extracted if the fracture extends below the gum line.
Fever Following Oral Surgery
After undergoing oral surgery, it is normal to experience pain and swelling in the mouth. However, if your temperature rises following a procedure or you notice other signs of infection, like red streaks in the gums, it may be a sign of a dental emergency.
Damaged Restoration
Dental restorations like fillings, crowns and bridges are essential for maintaining the function and appearance of your teeth. However, if these dental restorations become damaged or loose, they can cause pain and further damage.
Depending on the extent of the damage, your emergency dentist may recommend repairing or replacing the dental restoration.
Persistent Swelling
Swelling is a common side effect of dental procedures such as extractions, dental implants, and even deep teeth cleanings. In most cases, the swelling subsides within a few days as the body heals.
However, if the swelling persists or seems to worsen, it may be a sign of a dental emergency. Possible causes of persistent swelling include infection, dry socket, and nerve damage.
Common Dental Emergency Treatments
Several procedures can be used to treat dental emergencies, depending on the type and severity of the situation. Some of the most common treatment options for dental emergencies include:
- If a tooth has been knocked out, the emergency dentist may try to save the tooth by re-inserting it into the socket and stabilising it with a splint.
- If a tooth has been chipped or fractured, the dentist may use bonding, a dental filling or a dental crown to repair the damage.
- The dentist may drain the infection and prescribe antibiotics if a tooth is abscessed.
- In cases of severe pain, the dentist may determine that the best course of action is to extract the tooth.
- If a patient has experienced significant bone loss due to trauma or infection, an emergency dentist may recommend bone grafting to promote new tissue growth.
Visit an Emergency Dentist at Gordon Family Dental
Contact an emergency dentist on (02) 9159 6163 if you are unsure what is considered emergency dental. Our team of experienced professionals at Gordon Family Dental can address your dental emergency and restore your oral health, which may take more than one appointment, depending on the type of dental trauma you experience.
We offer same-day emergency dental appointments so we can quickly alleviate your discomfort and restore your healthy smile.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Patient Experiences in Australia: Summary of Findings
https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/by%20Subject/4839.0~2017-18~Main%20Features~Dental%20professionals~4
Dental Restoration
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/dental-restoration
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