Here is a partial list of dental emergencies we assist with regularly. Please do not hesitate to call us with questions or concerns; we are always available to answer your questions and see you for urgent dental issues when you need us.
Dental Trauma
Dental or oral trauma can happen anytime; some of the most common causes are sports-related, followed closely by recreational activities. Horseplay among kids is also a frequent cause of dental trauma; an accidental headbutt or elbow to the mouth can be enough to cause a chipped or broken tooth. If the impact is hard enough, the tooth may be completely dislodged from its socket. If a tooth is knocked out, the best chance to save it is to get to the dentist immediately. Bring the tooth, or all the pieces if it is broken, with you to the dentist. If it is an adult tooth, you may try to gently place it back in the socket on your way to the dentist. If you cannot put the tooth in the socket or it is a baby tooth, keep it moist by placing it in milk or fresh water until you can get to the dentist. Ideally, you want the dentist to see you within thirty minutes for the best prognosis. Call Lovelace Family Dentistry without delay so we can fit you into our schedule on an urgent basis.
Tooth Ache
A toothache can be excruciating and is definitely an indication that something is wrong and you require an emergency dental appointment. We have appointments set aside for this unfortunate and painful situation. Call Lovelace Family Dentist; let's get you out of pain and on the mend!
Crown or Filling Failure
Crowns and fillings are dental repairs; how can they become dental emergencies? Dental hardware, including crowns, fillings, veneers, bridges, and implants, is not immune to an occasional failure. It is a dental emergency when you experience failure of dental hardware, even if you are not currently experiencing pain. Call for the soonest urgent need appointment, and bring any dental material that may have come out for the dentist to examine.
Dental Abscess/ Root Infection
Dental infections can be severe and can happen seemingly without warning. An abscess, which can resemble a pimple on your gum, is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in an enclosed pocket and requires immediate treatment to prevent the infection from spreading. Bacteria is always present in the mouth; good oral hygiene helps keep it in check, but sometimes an overgrowth of bacteria can occur. An abscess is a sign that bacteria is causing a fairly significant problem that needs to be addressed before additional damage is done. Once the dentist treats the abscess, the dentist can determine the cause of the infection and correct it to prevent a reoccurrence.
Bleeding Gums
Gums bleeding in any amount is not normal and requires an urgent dentist visit. They usually do not cause pain; therefore, if they are bleeding a small amount, it may be tempting to wait until your next scheduled dental visit to address this issue. But the cause is likely early gum disease, which is reversible when treated early. Putting off a dental appointment for even a short time can allow the progression of gum disease to the degree that the best you can do is stop additional damage; it is no longer reversible. Call for an urgent visit as soon as you notice any signs of bleeding gums and give your smile the best chance of full recovery.
Bad Breath
If you notice that your regular oral hygiene routine is insufficient to leave you fresh breath, call us for an urgent appointment. Bad breath, while not only embarrassing, is a sign that there is something that needs attention in your mouth, and it can be a sign of tooth decay or an infection, among other issues. Whatever the cause, early intervention is best to eliminate the source of the bad breath, minimizing potential long-term damage to your oral health. Plus, it's great to talk and smile without worrying about the freshness of your breath!
Jaw Pain
Jaw pain is something that our dentists are experts in treating. If you are experiencing jaw pain, especially if it is sudden onset, call Lovelace Family Dentistry for an urgent appointment to determine the root cause and get treatment to relieve the discomfort you are having.
Hot/Cold Sensitivity
Similar to bleeding gums, having a sudden onset of sensitivity to hot or cold food or beverages is a sign of an issue with your oral health that needs immediate attention. Do not grin and bear it until your next scheduled dental visit; call for an urgent appointment so the dentist can identify the cause of the sensitivity and provide recommendations for relief. Let's get you back to enjoying all your favorite foods and beverages!
Mouth, Tounge, Gum, and Canker Sores
There are many causes for the variety of sores that can occur in your mouth. Some are self-resolving and not a reason for much concern; some are early symptoms of a more severe condition. Any mouth sore that prevents you from eating, drinking, or worsens over the period of a week, should be seen by the dentist as soon as possible for a thorough examination. Call us for an urgent appointment so the dentist can begin any necessary treatment.
