You might not realize it, but your teeth are delicate. And if you don’t take care of them, your regular dentist might not be able to fix what’s wrong. That’s when a dental emergency comes in.
When you have an emergency and it causes damage to your teeth, you have to make sure you see a dentist as soon as possible. But what are the signs of a dental emergency?
Keep reading to learn more about one of the most common medical emergencies out there.
1. Bleeding Gums
Bleeding is typically the symptom of gum disease, like gingivitis and periodontitis, which can cause significant damage to the teeth and gums if left untreated. In some cases, the bleeding may be a sign of a bacterial infection, which can be particularly painful and can result in cavities and abscesses.
Bleeding that is accompanied by other symptoms such as severe pain, swelling, or fever should be evaluated as soon as possible by a dentist. Early dental care and treatment can help to prevent more serious damage and can provide relief from pain and discomfort.
2. Unexpected Tooth Loss
Unexpected tooth loss is one of the most common signs of a dental emergency. When your tooth suddenly becomes dislodged due to trauma or sudden bite pressure, it’s important to act quickly in order to prevent further damage from occurring.
Improper alignment of the other teeth or a visible gap in the area where the tooth was lost is also a sign of emergency need. Unless you have been instructed to do so by a dentist, do not touch or try to re-attach the tooth.
3. Swollen Jaw
A swollen jaw could be an indication of a dental emergency and requires immediate attention. Symptoms can include facial or jaw swelling, pain, numbness or difficulty opening the mouth.
If you experience any of these symptoms along with a swollen jaw, it is best to visit your dentist or an emergency room right away. Your dentist can provide relief from the symptoms, and if needed, prescribe antibiotics and possibly surgery.
4. Altered Taste
Altered taste is a major sign of a potential dental emergency. Usually in the form of a metallic taste that lingers persistently, this symptom is typically accompanied by other signs such as sensitivity to hot or cold, loose teeth, swelling, and extreme pain when attempting to eat or drink.
If you notice this sensation in your mouth, it is important to make an appointment with your dentist.
5. Painful Wisdom Tooth
Painful wisdom teeth are one of the most common signs of a dental emergency. Generally, wisdom teeth- which are located at the back of the mouth near the jaw- will start to cause pain when they start to erupt from the gums. Check out this site for more info on how to tell if your wisdom teeth are coming in.
Understanding Symptoms of a Severe Dental Emergency
Overall, no matter what you may feel in terms of pain it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to something as important as your mouth. If you think you may be suffering from a dental emergency seek the advice of a professional immediately.
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