When to Seek a Dentist for Urgent Dental Care

When something feels amiss in the mouth, individuals should always take a deeper look. However, a concerning oral health issue does not always necessitate urgent dental care. It is important to understand the difference between what constitutes a dental emergency (and, therefore, what requires urgent dental care) and what can wait until normal business hours.

4 signs a person needs urgent dental care

Many emergency dental situations are severe and painful, but some are not. Some come with obviously alarming symptoms, such as profuse bleeding and tooth fragments, while others do not. Regardless of how they present themselves, almost all dental emergencies have the potential to become more severe over a few days or even hours, and some can become life-threatening. For these reasons, it is essential to be able to recognize the signs of a dental emergency and seek urgent dental care when appropriate. Below are the top four signs of serious oral issues.

1.     A toothache is accompanied by a fever, swelling, and more

Toothaches can be uncomfortable and downright painful at times, but treatment can usually wait until Monday. However, when a toothache is persistent, extremely painful, and unexplainable, dentists warn that it could be a sign of infection.

Though you can attempt to alleviate the pain and swelling associated with a toothache with at-home remedies, you should seek urgent dental care if the severity increases and the pain does not disappear. This is especially true if there is a bump around the site that hurts and if the ache is accompanied by fever, swelling, and tooth sensitivity. In the worst-case scenario, a patient could have a dental abscess.

2.     Bleeding is persistent and unexplained

Occasional bleeding during brushing and flossing is normal. It is also to be expected in patients with gum disease or periodontitis. However, people without a confirmed diagnosis experiencing persistent and extreme bleeding, pain, and swelling should contact an emergency dentist right away. The symptom could be a sign of periodontal disease or an underlying medical condition.

3.     Swelling in the jaw or mouth occurs

Unexplained swelling in the mouth or jaw can happen for several reasons, including infection, illness, or, in very rare cases, cancer. Because of the varied causes of unexplained swelling, most medical professionals may agree that it is reason enough to seek urgent dental care.

4.     A tooth breaks or falls out

In most cases, a chipped tooth does not constitute a medical emergency. On the other hand, a broken tooth or losing a permanent tooth may. In this case, you are likely experiencing extreme pain and sensitivity. The only way to restore comfort — and, possibly, to save the tooth — is to entrust it to the care of a dentist who specializes in urgent dental care.

Conclusion

Any oral health abnormality is cause for concern and should prompt individuals to seek dental care as soon as possible. However, some issues, such as those that result in fever, swelling, profuse and persistent bleeding, or tooth loss, could be dental emergencies that require urgent dental care. If you have any further questions, consult with your local dentist today.

Request an appointment here: https://hemetdentalcenter.com or call Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC. at (951) 707-4366 for an appointment in our Hemet office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Urgent Dental Care in Hemet, CA.

Recent Posts

How Do Tooth Colored Fillings Work?

Tooth colored fillings are an important way that a patient can restore the functionality of the teeth while creating an aesthetically pleasing smile that leaves him or her happy with the dental work received. Composite fillings are becoming increasingly common, and it is important for patients to know whether the option may be right for…

Are Composite Fillings Mercury Free?

If you have cavities caused by tooth decay, composite fillings can be used to fill the hole, protect your teeth, and restore your smile. Many people prefer this option because it has a more natural appearance and does not create an eyesore. Others prefer them because they do not contain the same ingredients as traditional…

How To Know If Composite Fillings Are Right For You

Composite fillings are among the most commonly used materials for restoring teeth affected by cavities or minor damage. These dental fillings repair damaged teeth and restore their function and appearance. While there are several types of fillings besides composite ones, patients may be unsure which one is right for them. Fortunately, a dentist can help.Composite…

Implant Crown: The Final Step In Restoring Your Smile

Dental implants provide a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth, but they do not work on their own. An implant crown serves as the final step in this process, completing the restoration and restoring smile function, appearance, and confidence. They mimic the appearance and strength of natural teeth to integrate with the rest of…

Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC.

Share
Published by
Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC.

Recent Posts

How Do Tooth Colored Fillings Work?

Tooth colored fillings are an important way that a patient can restore the functionality of…

2 days ago

Are Composite Fillings Mercury Free?

If you have cavities caused by tooth decay, composite fillings can be used to fill…

4 days ago

How to Know if Composite Fillings are Right for You

Composite fillings are among the most commonly used materials for restoring teeth affected by cavities…

4 days ago

Implant Crown: The Final Step in Restoring Your Smile

An implant crown serves as the final step in this process, completing the restoration and…

1 week ago

How Cosmetic Dentistry Uses Tooth Colored Fillings

Cavities can happen to anyone, but there are ways to restore your teeth without sacrificing…

1 week ago

When a Dentist Would Recommend Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are made of plastic resin and glass particles mixed together. Your dentist may…

2 weeks ago