Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential for a healthy smile, but dental emergencies can still catch us off guard. Knowing how to identify dental emergencies and when to seek immediate care can make all the difference in preserving your oral health. Read on to discover the seven signs that indicate you may need to visit a dentist as soon as possible, their potential causes, and the actions you can take to address them promptly.
1. Cracked or chipped teeth
Children are prone to accidents, and one common result is cracked or chipped teeth. While some chips may not cause immediate pain, they should not be ignored. Minor chips on the top corners of teeth may be monitored until the next dental checkup. However, any significant cracks, especially those extending vertically or diagonally, require emergency dental care. Neglecting to address such cracks can lead to pain or permanent damage to the tooth’s structure.
2. Persistent toothaches
Toothaches are uncomfortable and may indicate underlying dental issues. If your child complains of jaw or tooth soreness, you can try giving them child-safe ibuprofen. However, if the pain persists for more than a few hours, it’s time to seek professional help. Toothaches can result from various conditions, such as decay or root injury. Your dentist may need to perform a filling or tooth extraction to alleviate the pain and address the underlying cause.
Don’t worry if your child needs a cavity filled. It’s a common experience for many children between the ages of two and 11, and modern dental procedures ensure the process is smooth and painless.
3. Sensitivity to cold or hot substances
Have you ever experienced a strange sensation in your teeth while drinking hot or cold water? Experts advise seeing your dentist if you experience issues with temperature sensitivity. It might be anything from tooth decay to enamel degrading.
4. Bad breath
Bad breath is not only a source of embarrassment in public but also an indication of serious problems with your teeth. It can be a sign of a dry mouth, an infection, or inadequate dental hygiene. Schedule an appointment to address the issues before it becomes chronic and leads to even more serious problems.
5. Chronic jaw pain
Chronic jaw pain can be frustrating and affect your child’s daily life. If they experience jaw soreness, difficulty chewing, or trouble opening their mouth, it could be due to teeth clenching, often occurring during sleep. Your dentist can create a custom mouth guard that is comfortable to wear while sleeping, helping to relax the jaw and alleviate the pain.
6. Knocked-out permanent teeth
Losing a loose baby tooth is a natural part of growing up, but losing a permanent tooth is a serious matter. If one of your child’s permanent teeth gets knocked out, act swiftly. Hold the tooth by the crown, avoid touching the root, and rinse it with water if possible. Try to reinsert it into the socket gently or place it in a glass of milk. Then, immediately contact your dentist for emergency care. Prompt action may allow the dentist to reattach the tooth, leaving no visible difference in your child’s smile.
7. Excessive bleeding from gums
A little blood while brushing or flossing is common and may not be an emergency. However, if you notice excessive bleeding, accompanied by gum soreness or tenderness, it’s crucial to see a dental professional as soon as possible. Excessive bleeding often indicates an infection that may require antibiotic treatment. Apply pressure with a damp paper towel or cloth to control bleeding, and reach out to your dentist to schedule emergency dental care.
