Our smiles are one of the first things people notice when they meet us, so we want them to be healthy and beautiful. That’s why it’s important to stay current on your preventive dental care. It’s also why it’s worrisome when your teeth don’t function or look like they usually do. Sometimes, the situation may require immediate care, but in others, only patience is necessary. If you’re uncertain about your situation, the following are examples of dental emergencies.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
A cracked or broken tooth is considered a dental emergency when a sizable part of the tooth is gone. An untreated cracked or broken tooth may be accompanied by intense dental pain. It can also become difficult to eat or speak. Broken teeth are a common dental emergency since teeth can become easily broken by biting into hard or crunchy foods.
Consistent & Painful Toothache
It may be hard to tell when a painful toothache requires an emergency dental visit. Generally, if a toothache continues for more than two days and is causing pain or discomfort, we highly encourage you to schedule an appointment. Painful toothaches typically indicate tooth decay or an infected tooth. An unresolved toothache will only worsen and may result in measures like root canal therapy or other treatments. This is an example of a dental emergency that could be prevented with good oral hygiene and routine dental visits.
Knocked-Out Tooth or Lost Filling
Though teeth and dental restorations should last a lifetime with good care, accidents still happen. When an adult tooth is lost, it is best to receive emergency dental care as soon as possible. If you can find the knocked-out tooth, do not touch it by the roots. Preserve it to take to your appointment by storing it in a container of milk or saline solution. When a filling or other restorative dentistry treatment is lost, be sure to bring it to your appointment as well.
Comprehensive Dental Care in Puyallup, WA
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency like a broken tooth, painful toothache, or lost filling, our Willow Smiles Dentistry team is here! Our experienced team offers an array of dental services, including emergency dental care, to bring your smile back to health. Give our office a call to schedule your visit today!