4 Questions to Ask To Find Out If You Have a Dental Emergency

You’ve likely noticed the countless businesses and activity centers closed down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Did you know that your local dentist is among those? In a statement released by the American Dental Association, they recommended that dental practices be closed with the exception to provide treatment to patients who have an urgent dental emergency. But how can you tell what’s serious and what isn’t if you’re not a professional trained to diagnose oral health problems? Read on to learn how to find out if your problem is a dental emergency and how to keep your oral health in-check while self isolating.

Do You Notice Swelling?

Whether you just received an important surgery and notice unordinary swelling or it seems to have appeared out of nowhere, this can be a sign of a serious problem, especially when it’s left untreated. When harmful oral bacteria accumulate in the mouth, they can release a toxin that causes inflammation and swelling. That’s why one of the earlier signs of gum disease and a later signs of infection is swelling. Without timely treatment, both of these issues can progress into ones that are more serious, causing other teeth to become affected and eventually resulting in treatment such as tooth extractions.

Are You in Pain?

Pain is clear and good indication that you have a dental emergency on your hands and should contact your nearest professional as soon as possible. Some signs of discomfort that requires urgent treatment include:

• Severe toothaches
• Dental sensitivity
• Jaw pain

Can You See Visible Tooth Decay?

If you open your mouth to be able to brush and floss back by your molars and notice dark and decayed-looking pits in your teeth, it’s likely because a cavity has gone untreated or a filling is leaking. This typically also causes pain, but if it doesn’t, it may be a sign that your tooth has died. In any case, it’s important to contact your emergency dentist so they can clean and fill the damaged are to prevent the problem from growing.

Do You Notice Dental Damage?

Chipped, broken, and cracked teeth are all considered dental emergencies because they can grow into more serious issues down the road if they aren’t addressed. Your dentist can repair the tooth using a composite resin bonding method and prevent any harmful oral bacteria from being able to attack the fragile inner-chamber, causing pain.

Spending Social Isolation Focusing On Your Oral Health

If you’re able to, it’s a good idea to take extra precautionary care of your teeth and gums while social isolating, especially because nobody’s sure when non-urgent dental treatments will be provided again. With thorough care, you’ll also be able to prevent any of the issues listed above from occurring!

About the Author

Dr. Aom Arrechea has years of experience helping her patients who have dental emergencies feel calm, relaxed, and at-ease during their visits. She understands how stressful these situations can be, which is why she takes the time to work quickly and effectively to ease any pain they’re experiencing. She has also completed advanced education including Level 2 Moderate Enteral Sedation through the Academy of Dental and Medical Anesthesia and Special Patient Care and Pediatric Dentistry through the Maryland Academy of General Dentistry. For questions or to schedule an emergency appointment, visit Daily Smiles Dental’s website or call 214-233-9460.