When to Visit an Emergency Dentist in Wantirna for Common Dental Issues
Dental emergencies can strike unexpectedly, often leaving us in pain and confusion. While some dental issues can wait until your next routine appointment, others require urgent attention to prevent further complications. Knowing when to visit a dentist during an emergency can save you from prolonged discomfort and costly treatments. SDG Dental is open even on weekends to provide immediate emergency dental services to our patients in Wantirna.
If you’re feeling unsure whether urgent care is necessary in your situation, here’s a guide to help you understand the most common dental issues that warrant an immediate visit.
1. Severe Toothache
Toothaches can be more than just a nuisance – they can signal a serious problem. If your toothache is persistent and intense, accompanied by swelling, fever or earache, it may indicate an infection or abscess requiring prompt treatment. Thoroughly rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress on the outside of the mouth and take a pain reliever to minimise the discomfort at home. Over-the-counter pain relief can only do so much, so seeking an emergency dentist is crucial to avoid complications like tooth loss or spreading infection.
2. Broken or Chipped Tooth
Accidents happen, and a chipped or broken tooth is one of the most common reasons to visit an emergency dentist. It can happen from dental trauma, from a fall, biting hard or from decay. Even if the breakage isn’t painful it can expose the inner layers of your tooth to bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. Depending on its severity the tooth may need to be extracted or fixed. The dentist can assess the damage and provide treatments such as bonding or a dental crown to restore the tooth’s appearance and functionality.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth is knocked out, then time is of the essence. Acting quickly can often save the tooth if treated within an hour of the injury. In such cases, handle the tooth by the crown (the white part) and avoid touching the root. Do not rinse the tooth and remove any attached tissues. Try to place the tooth back in its socket if possible or keep it in milk while you seek an emergency dentist in Wantirna. Immediate attention is essential to increase the chances of successful reattachment.
4. Abscess or Gum Infection
An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It can occur in different parts of the tooth or gums and is a serious condition that should not be ignored. Symptoms include a throbbing toothache, swelling and fever. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body and lead to more serious health issues. Visiting an emergency dentist promptly can prevent this.
5. Lost or Broken Filling/Crown
Losing a filling or crown can leave your tooth vulnerable to damage and discomfort. Without the protection of a crown or filling the exposed tooth is more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. Stick a small piece of sugarless gum into the cavity and seek immediate help. It’s advisable to see an emergency dentist as soon as possible to have the crown or filling replaced to avoid any further complications. Bring the broken restoration with you and absolutely avoid trying to fix it using something like super glue, which is a big NO.
6. Soft Tissue Injury
A soft tissue injury is a trauma to the gums, cheeks, tongue or lips. While occasional minor gum bleeding can be common due to brushing too hard or gum irritation, consistent or heavy bleeding could indicate a more serious issue such as gum disease or a wound that requires urgent attention. If your gums or any part of the mouth is bleeding excessively after an injury, seeking immediate dental care can help diagnose the problem and prevent further harm.
7. Swollen Jaw or Mouth
A swollen jaw can signal an infection, swollen lymph nodes or even more serious conditions. If you notice swelling in your jaw or mouth that isn’t linked to a toothache or recent dental work it’s worth visiting our emergency dentist in Wantirna to rule out any underlying problems.
Knowing when to visit an emergency dentist can prevent minor issues from turning into major dental problems. If you experience any of the issues mentioned above, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. At SDG Dental in Wantirna, our skilled emergency dentists are available to provide prompt, effective treatment and ensure your dental health stays on track. Even during the weekend don’t hesitate to reach out for care. Your smile is worth protecting! Contact us now!