If you’re not on top of your dental care, it might be hard to identify when it’s appropriate to seek an emergency dental appointment. Dental emergencies need to be taken seriously, however, as they’re not only tremendously painful, but possibly life-threatening.
To help you understand when it’s time to seek emergency dental care, the professionals at Stuart Curry Dentistry are here to provide this helpful guide.
An Emergency Dental Appointment for Oral Infections?
Serious gum or tooth infection can be incredibly painful, and even spread to vital areas such as the heart if left untreated. If your infection is causing your jaw to swell, or if the pain is not being addressed with store-bought medication, call your dentist for an emergency dental appointment. Oral health should not be taken lightly, nor is it worth risking your life.
A Tooth is Broken or Knocked Out
If you have a tooth that is broken or knocked out from accidents or contact sports, a prompt visit to an emergency dentist can possibly save your tooth. The dentist may be able to reinsert the tooth into the gums and salvage nerve connectivity.
While waiting to see your dentist, gently clean the tooth and attempt to reinsert it. Bite down on something safe to hold it in place while you wait for your emergency dental appointment. Your dentist will attempt to splint the tooth in place and give it a chance to reattach.
A lesser dental problem such as a minor chipped tooth, however, is not necessarily urgent. Pain is generally a good indicator of whether or not your tooth damage is a problem that requires immediate dental services.
You’re Experiencing Tooth Abscesses
An abscess is a specific type of oral infection that causes intense pain in the tooth and radiates throughout the jaw. An abscessed tooth must either be pulled or treated with a root canal procedure. An unaddressed tooth abscess can lead to severe health complications.’
Signs of a tooth abscess include pain, heightened sensitivity, facial swelling, foul-tasting fluid, or even difficulty breathing. Make an emergency dental appointment especially if you experience some of the latter symptoms.
What to Do While Waiting
When you schedule an emergency dental appointment, your specialist will be sure to get you in as soon as possible. In the meantime, follow any instructions given to you by your dentist. This may include using ice to relieve any swelling from infection, rinsing the mouth with warm water, and taking over-the-counter pain medication.
Emergency Dental Appointments with Stuart Curry Dentistry
If you need emergency dental care in Birmingham, call Stuart Curry Dentistry as soon as the problem arises. We’ll set you up with the soonest possible appointment to ensure that your oral health is preserved.
We’ll also make sure to inform you what services your dental insurance will cover in all circumstances. Our business hours are generally from 8AM – 5PM, but earlier or later appointments can be made upon request and for emergencies.
To schedule your next dental appointment with Stuart Curry Dentistry, call our Birmingham office at (205)-972-3831.
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