During any kind of emergency, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and panicked. But if you know the right steps to take, you can often face the situation with a clear head. If you have a dental emergency in McLeansville, NC, you should contact your emergency dentist as soon as possible. Even if the situation ends up not being critical, it’s still a good idea to get a check-up to make sure there’s nothing wrong. Because there are different types of dental emergencies, it’s important to understand what you need to do in each situation.
Types of a Dental Emergency in McLeansville, NC
Dental emergencies can come in a variety of forms, and not all of them require immediate assistance. But even if your situation isn’t critical, you should still contact your dentist right away. Calling your dentist should always be one of your first steps, regardless of what kind of emergency you have.
Severe Tooth Pain
Sudden and intense tooth pain or sensitivity can often be a sign of decay or damage. But it can also be caused by having food stuck between your teeth. If you experience severe tooth pain, start by rinsing your mouth with warm water and flossing. If you continue to experience pain and sensitivity, call your dentist for an emergency visit. In some cases, tooth pain can point to an infected tooth pulp, which may need a root canal to treat.
Chipped or Fractured Tooth
If you suffer trauma to the mouth or bite on something the wrong way, your teeth may experience a chip or fracture. You should call your dentist right away to get an appointment as soon as possible. In some instances, you may be able to wait a day or two for treatment. But a damaged tooth is also more likely to suffer further damage or decay. The sooner you can get in for restorative treatment, the better.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If your tooth falls out, immediate treatment is often crucial. In very few cases, your dentist may even be able to reattach your tooth. However, most patients with tooth loss will need restorative treatment. For many patients, the best restorative option is a dental implant. Implants integrate with your jawbone, but it’s possible to lose jaw bone density when you’ve lost a tooth. Getting in to see a dentist right away can help expedite treatment to increase the chances of a successful implant.
Bleeding Gums
Sometimes, eating certain hard foods or getting food stuck between your teeth can cause your gums to bleed when you brush and floss. But if you notice consistent bleeding every time you clean your teeth, you may want to see a dentist right away. Bleeding gums are often one of the early signs of gum disease. If caught early enough, your dentist may be able to treat gum disease with an antibacterial mouthwash and a deep cleaning. But if gum disease continues to advance, you may need more invasive treatment.
If you suffer any kind of dental emergency, contact McLeansville Family and Cosmetic Dentistry right away for treatment. You can call us at 336.506.6545 to schedule your emergency appointment. If we can’t accommodate you in our schedule, we’ll refer you to another local dentist or doctor who may be able to help.