The Most Common Types of Dental Emergencies

Beverly Dentistry • Dec 11, 2021

Did you know that there were more than 2 million dental-related emergency department (ED) visits in 2018? The cost of these dental-related visits to the ER costs $2 billion nationally in 2017. The truth is a lot of these dental emergencies could be diverted over to a dentist, saving the ER for more imminent and dangerous emergencies.

Some types of dental emergencies should get diverted to a dentist. Which ones are they? Let's read on to find out.

Chipped or a Cracked Tooth

Did you bite down on a hard object or use your teeth to bite on something that's not food? It could result in a chipped tooth or a cracked one. Also, people who grind or clench their teeth (also called bruxism) could have teeth that are cracked or chipped as well.

If you have any tooth fragments on hand, rinse them in water, and preserve them in a glass of milk or water, before going to an emergency dentist.

Toothache

If you have a toothache that refuses to go away and has been causing you to have sleepless nights, then you must visit a dentist right away. It could be related to a wide range of dental problems, like pulp infection, something stuck in between your teeth, or cavities. The earlier you go to your dentist to get this pain looked at, the better it is for your oral health.

Soft Tissue Damage

The soft tissue of the mouth includes lips, the tongue, the inside of the cheeks, and the gums. Whenever you are in a situation where one of these soft tissue structures has been harmed, you will need to contact an emergency dentist. They will be able to tell you if you should go to them or to an emergency room to get yourself or your loved one fixed up.

Tooth Knocked Out or Loosened up Due to Impact

Always try to locate the knocked-out tooth and preserve it by holding it in its socket and biting down on it to keep it in place. Or you can place it in a glass of milk and water. The same thing applies if your tooth has been loosened - hold it in place by biting down on it and visit an emergency dentist right away! 

Missing or Loose Dental Restoration

Both temporary and permanent restorations can fall out or get loosened up. Make sure to visit an emergency dentist right away to fix them.

Which Types of Dental Emergencies Have You Dealt With?

Most people will have dealt with at least one or two of these types of dental emergencies in their lifetime, if not for themselves, then for their loved ones. It's always a good idea to call and consult with your family dentist to see if your dental emergency warrants a visit to the ER. 

Looking for a dental practice in La Palma, CA? Contact Beverly Dentistry and let us help you and your family enjoy better oral health. 

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