Dental emergencies often happen when we least expect them, with many needing to be treated right away to avoid serious issues in the short and long term. At Dearborn Family Smiles, we place a high priority on providing emergency dental care. We make sure you receive timely and efficient treatment to relieve pain and address the underlying problem, which can pose serious risks to your oral health as well as your general health.
First Things First: What Is a Dental Emergency?
While dental emergencies can take many different forms, they often include pain, bleeding, or damage to the gums or teeth. The following are some typical dental emergencies that need to be treated right away:
Severe Toothache: A severe or ongoing toothache is frequently an indication of a more serious dental problem, like serious decay or infection. The infection can spread if treatment is not received, which could result in more complex complications like abscesses or even systemic health problems.
Chipped or Broken Tooth: Trauma or injuries can damage teeth, sometimes causing pain and/or infection by exposing the inner area of teeth to harmful bacteria. To fix the problem and eradicate further issues, immediate attention is required.
Knocked-Out Tooth: One of the most serious dental emergencies is a knocked-out tooth. It has a better chance of survival if it can be put back into the socket and treated by us in less than an hour.
Lost Crown or Filling: In these circumstances, the underlying tooth is exposed and can become prone to further deterioration. Seeking early dental care can stop additional damage from occurring and restore the appearance and functionality of the tooth.
Abscess: A severe infection that occurs at the tooth root or in the space between the gum and the tooth, an abscess can result in severe pain, fever, or more. If not treated right away, it may spread to other body parts and create a serious health risk.
What Can Happen If You Delay Receiving Care for a Dental Emergency?
There can be major repercussions when dental emergencies are postponed or ignored, such as:
Enhanced Pain & Discomfort: Dental emergencies are frequently accompanied by excruciating pain and discomfort. Postponing treatment can exacerbate and prolong the pain, making it more difficult to manage in the future.
Infection Spread: If dental problems, like abscesses or severe decay, are left untreated, they may cause infections that spread to other body parts. More severe health issues, such as potentially fatal sepsis, may arise from this.
Tooth Loss: If dental emergencies are ignored, the affected tooth may fall out. For instance, if medical attention is given right away, a knocked-out tooth has a better chance of survival. Postponing medical attention can reduce the chance of a successful reimplantation.
Potentially Costly & Complex Treatments: If a minor issue is not taken care of quickly, it can turn into a serious one with time and result in more involved and costly procedures like extractions, root canals, or surgery.
At Dearborn Family Smiles, we understand the urgency and stress associated with dental emergencies, and we’re here to help with prompt and effective care. If you’re having a dental emergency, don’t wait! Contact us today!