Imagine it’s the middle of the night—you’re suddenly woken by intense tooth pain. Or you are eating and hear a crack. What would you do? These are just two examples of situations where a dental emergency may require immediate treatment. In many cases, that treatment is an emergency tooth extraction.
A dental emergency can occur unexpectedly, and knowing when to seek immediate care can make a huge difference. In the above situations, an emergency tooth extraction is require. While tooth extraction can be daunting, it is sometimes the only viable option to safeguard oral health.
In this article, we will discuss the top 5 situations that may require an emergency tooth extraction. Let’s take a look.
What is Emergency Tooth Extraction?
As the name suggests, an emergency tooth extraction refers to the removal of a tooth that is causing severe pain, infection, or other dental issues that cannot wait for a routine appointment. Unlike planned tooth extractions, which are done to prevent future problems, emergency extractions are done to address immediate threats to your oral health.
However, not all tooth problems require an extraction. Certain situations can make it necessary to remove the tooth immediately and prevent further complications. Knowing when to seek help and avoiding emergency tooth extraction at home can prevent complications.
What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency typically involves severe pain, damage to the teeth, and specific symptoms, including bleeding, that cannot wait.
Here are the top 5 reasons you may need emergency dental care:
Severe Tooth Pain
Severe and constant tooth pain is often a sign of deeper issues, including:
- A cavity in the mouth that has reached the nerve endings.
- Infection or abscess.
- Damage to the tooth structure.
If you experience severe pain, rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to the cheek to reduce swelling (if any), and refrain from eating until you visit a dentist.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
An accident can occur at any time, often due to a sports injury, such as biting on something hard or slipping and falling. A broken or chipped tooth is not just about aesthetic appeal, but it can also cause:
- Increased tooth sensitivity.
- Risk of infection.
- Difficulty chewing.
If you find your tooth broken or chipped during an accident, rinse your mouth immediately with warm water and save the pieces of the broken tooth. Use gauze or cold compress to stop the bleeding and visit a dentist immediately. While small chips are not an emergency, a large fracture might be. A dentist can help you address both.
Knocked Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is one of the most sensitive and urgent dental emergencies. During such an event, urgent attention and action are require to increase the chances of saving the tooth. Keep in mind that a tooth can only be re-implanted within an hour of being knocked out. Hence, time is the key.
If your tooth gets knocked out:
- Handle the tooth by the top part and avoid touching the root.
- Gently rinse it with room-temperature water. Do not scrub or try to remove any tissue fragments.
- Store it in a container of milk to keep it moist.
- Visit a dentist right away.
Lost Filling or Crown
Fillings and crowns serve as protection for teeth, but they can sometimes come loose or fall off. When this happens, it exposes the sensitive part of your teeth and can lead to:
- Pain while chewing.
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
- Risk of further damage.
If you notice your tooth filling or crown is falling, do not attempt to repair the pieces with over-the-counter glues or adhesives. Save the broken pieces and bring them to your dentist’s office.
Swelling or Infection
A sudden swelling in the jaw, gums, or face is a sign of dental abscess. A dental abscess is a severe infection around the tooth root. If left untreated, it can spread to other parts of your body. Hence, it is essential to act quickly.
If you notice swelling in any part of your face, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to reduce the discomfort and visit the dentist immediately.
Process of Emergency Tooth Extraction
Here’s what to expect if you’re scheduled for an urgent removal:
- Evaluation: The dentist examines your tooth using X-rays and checks for infection or damage.
- Local Anesthesia: Numbing agents are applied to reduce discomfort.
- Extraction: The tooth is carefully removed. In some cases, stitches may be need.
- Aftercare Instructions: You’ll receive detailed care instructions, including rest, pain management, and guidelines on when to eat and brush.
Takeaway
Dental emergencies can be daunting and may not require emergency tooth extraction. Emergency tooth extraction is often the last resort, but in many cases, it’s the best option to prevent pain, infection, or long-term damage. Recognizing the signs early and taking immediate action can protect your overall oral health.
Visit Emergency Dentist at University Ave Dental for Quick Solutions
Whether you have a dental emergency or not, our dentist in Blaine, MN, is committed to prompt treatment and resolving your issues.
Schedule your appointment with us today at (763) 784-1242, or visit us at 10155 University Ave NE Suite #112, Blaine, MN 55434.
