Accidents and emergencies regularly happen when we least expect them and often at the most inopportune time. This can make dental emergencies all the more frightening. Getting prompt care from a trained and experienced dental professional can make the difference between making a full recovery and having to live with the effects of a dental emergency.

Sometimes a situation arises that isn’t a result of an accident at all, but you are simply in unbearable pain that you can’t tolerate any more.

While many dentists offer emergency appointments if an incident or problem arises outside of their normal office hours, many patients still have trouble trying to decide if their unique situation can be considered a dental emergency.

What is considered a dental emergency?

Unfortunately, the exact answer as to what constitutes a dental emergency depends on the extent of the problem. While some patients have a high tolerance for pain and may be able to wait until their dentist’s regular opening hours, another person may be on the verge of passing out from discomfort.

While dental emergencies can vary, they typically include problems such as:

• A tooth that has been knocked-out due to a fall or blunt force trauma to the face
• Dental abscesses
• Emergency restorations, such as a temporary cavity filling or crown
• Cracks in the teeth that are severe, or there is part of the tooth missing
• Emergency repair to dental implants
• Bleeding from the mouth that will not stop
• Swelling in the mouth or around the face that threatens to obstruct the airway
• Infections in the teeth or soft tissues of the mouth that require antibiotics
• Emergency root canal treatment for infections that have penetrated the very center of the tooth
• Wounds to the gums or other soft tissues of the mouth
• Unusual lumps or bumps in the mouth that are accompanied by worrying symptoms such as high fever, severe pain, or swelling
• Pain that is so severe the patient cannot cope

What treatment will I receive if I have a dental emergency?

The type of treatment needed during a dental emergency will depend on the type of damage or pain sustained. In most instances of emergency dental care, we will provide a temporary solution to the problem, and then arrange a follow up appointment during normal office hours. This may mean issuing a temporary cavity filling or crown, or prescribing a course of antibiotics or prescription pain relief to take until you can be seen again.

Are you dealing with severe dental pain or another type of dental emergency? Call Vero Dental Spa today to schedule an emergency consultation with one of our experienced dentists.