Types of Dental Emergencies

Emergency dentistry concerns tooth problems that happen suddenly and unexpectedly. When a patient comes into the office with a dental emergency, our dentist in Walnut Creek evaluates the situation and begins treatment as soon as possible. A patient with a dental emergency will often need a root canal or an extraction.

If you are experiencing any of the following, you should visit a dentist as soon as possible:

Toothache

A toothache can be a sign of a number of dental problems. It can be from tooth decay, a loose filling, or gum disease. A toothache can also be a sign of a more serious oral health problem, like a dental abscess.

If you are experiencing a toothache, schedule an appointment with our dentist as soon as possible. If the problem is persistent, our dentist may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.

Broken Tooth

If a tooth is knocked out, find the tooth and rinse it thoroughly with water. Do not use soap or chemicals to clean it. If possible, place the tooth back into the socket. Otherwise, place the tooth in a clean container with milk, saliva, or water. Don’t use water to rinse the tooth because cells on the root surface may absorb water. The tooth may need to be re-implanted to save it.

Chipped Tooth

A chipped tooth is a dental emergency, especially for a front tooth. Chips can lead to pain and sensitivity. This situation may require dental bonding or tooth fillings, depending on the size and location of the chip.

Lost Filling

Although a filling is not a permanent restoration, a missing filling can cause other dental complications. For example, a missing filling can allow bacteria to enter your tooth, leading to tooth decay. In addition, a missing filling can lead to tooth sensitivity.

If you lose a filling, you should call your dentist as soon as possible to get treatment. If you have a large filling, you may only need a filling replacement. However, if you have a small filling, you may need to cover the hole with a dental crown to prevent further complications.

Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth is a painful problem that is caused by a bacterial infection. It is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention.

An abscessed tooth is the result of an infection inside the tooth. When the infection is left untreated, it can spread to the gums, jawbone, and bloodstream.

Jaw Pain

Severe jaw pain is most commonly caused by an infection of the tooth or gums. While infection can result from one’s diet or hygiene, it can also be caused by mouth trauma such as a bite injury. It is always a good idea to seek immediate dental care if experiencing jaw pain.

Ygnacio Dental is located at 1766 Lacassie Ave, Suite 101, Walnut Creek, CA 94596. Call (925) 280-2848 to schedule an appointment.