When to See an Emergency Dentist: Identifying and Handling Dental Emergencies

No one ever thinks a dental emergency will happen to them, but the truth is that most of us will experience a severe toothache, mouth injury, or some other dental concern at some point in our lives. A dental emergency can be scary and confusing, so knowing what to look for and when to contact your dentist is essential. Keep reading to learn more.

Identifying Dental Emergencies: What You Need to Know

Numerous dental emergencies require specialized care, so if you are experiencing any of the following situations, contact us immediately:

1. Loose tooth — Healthy mature teeth shouldn’t ever be loose, so if you have a loose tooth, it’s best to call us right away.
2. Severe toothache — If you have occasional tooth pain that goes away on its own, there’s no need to consider it a dental emergency. However, if you have persistent pain that doesn’t subside with over-the-counter pain relievers, or if you have a fever or difficulty swallowing, you need to contact us.
3. Bleeding gums — Do your gums bleed when you brush and floss? If so, it could mean you have gum disease, so you should make an appointment with us to discuss your oral health. If you have sustained an injury and your mouth is bleeding, call our dental office for an appointment. If you are unable to stop the bleeding, it’s best to go to the nearest emergency room.
4. Swollen jaw — A swollen jaw, especially if you haven’t had any recent dental work, can be a sign of a severe infection, so it’s best to check it out with our dental team.
5. Dental abscess — A dental abscess is an infection usually caused by gum disease or an untreated cavity. Call us immediately to prevent the infection from spreading to the rest of your body.
6. Numb tooth — If your tooth becomes numb after experiencing pain, it could mean an infection has spread to the tooth’s nerves. It’s essential to seek emergency dental care right away.

Looking for an Emergency Dentist in Springfield, VA?

If you or a loved one needs emergency dental care, consider the compassionate dental team at Life Advanced Integrated Dentistry! We can ease your discomfort and work to restore your oral health. Call us at (703) 253-7399 to schedule an appointment.