Emergency Dental Visits in Bonney Lake

When it comes to our oral health, experiencing a potential dental emergency is something no one wants to ever happen to them. But if it does, you need to know what is an emergency and what is not.

We understand that your dental problem may seem like an emergency and that you want to see the dentist as soon as possible. Not all dental issues, however, are emergencies.

What is a dental emergency?

Again, we understand that problems with your teeth and gums can feel like an emergency. We certainly want to help you as soon as possible. Knowing what is a dental emergency not only saves you and your dentist time, it can save you money. That being said, a dental emergency is a situation in which you could potentially lose a tooth or even your life. Signs of a dental emergency include severe pain, swelling, infection, and bleeding that won’t go away or stop. Several common types of dental emergencies fit this description.

Types of dental emergencies

Knocked-out tooth

A knocked-out or broken tooth can happen in several different ways. The most common way is by playing sports without mouth protection, but can also be the result of a fight or a nasty fall. Regardless of the cause, you need to seek emergency dental care right away so we can try to save your tooth either by repairing it and placing it back in the socket or by replacing it entirely with an implant. You should not wait to see the dentist in this situation because a knocked-out tooth can expose nerves or result in an infection in the socket that can spread to other teeth. This is an emergency that must be addressed immediately before other problems develop.

Abscess

An abscess is a pocket of pus on a tooth or the gums that causes infection if not treated immediately. This is a potentially life-threatening condition you should take seriously. Symptoms include fever, tooth sensitivity, toothache, swelling of the gums, and something resembling a pimple on your gums. Infections can spread to other parts of the body as well, making it crucial that you seek emergency dental care.

Painful toothache

Most toothaches are minor and often fade away. Maybe a piece of food became lodged between your teeth or got stuck just under the gum. Perhaps you ate or drank something too cold or too hot that triggered a particularly sensitive tooth. In any of these cases, brushing, flossing, and using special toothpaste or over-the-counter oral pain medication can fix your problem. If you have a really painful toothache that won’t go away and you can’t identify a cause, seek dental care right away.

Bleeding and swollen gums

Bleeding and swollen gums can be a sign of infection or another underlying issue that needs immediate treatment. We are not talking about a little pink in the sink because you may have brushed too aggressively. Bleeding that you can’t explain accompanying swelling and even pain is a good reason to see an emergency dentist.

Nerve exposure

Nerve pain is never fun. You can alleviate minor nerve pain at home with toothpaste made for sensitive teeth or other over-the-counter pain medication options. But an exposed nerve, either due to a broken filling or tooth, can lead to infection, nerve damage, and other negative long-term effects.

Broken crowns and fillings that cause pain

If you experience a broken crown or filling and you are experiencing severe pain, seek emergency dental services as soon as possible. A broken filling exposes cavities and tooth nerves that can be painful. The tooth is also weaker and can suffer more damage. A painful broken crown can result in infection, further damage to your tooth and adjacent teeth, and the need for a root canal.

Pain and swelling in the mouth and jawbone

Swelling and pain in your mouth and jawbone can be signs of infection or a serious underlying issue that requires immediate treatment. Don’t wait to seek care.

What to do if you experience a dental emergency

If you think you are going through a dental emergency, it’s important that you remain calm. Panicking will make the situation worse. Call your dental office to let them know you are coming in and explain the problem. If you suffer a knocked-out tooth, be sure to collect it and place it in a cup of milk to preserve it. Your dentist might be able to save it. Please avoid eating or drinking anything that could irritate the affected area. You can contact Dentistry at Bonney Lake by calling 253-236-7456.

What is not a dental emergency?

Some types of dental problems, including a few on the list above, are not considered emergencies. Cavities are usually not considered emergencies and can wait for a regular appointment unless it is causing you significant pain. Broken or missing crowns and fillings that are not causing you any pain can also wait for a normal appointment. Cleanings, teeth whitening, veneers, and other restorative and aesthetic dental work can also wait. Emergency dentistry is only for real emergencies. Seeking emergency treatment for a non-emergency takes attention away from patients who actually need emergency care. Please responsibly evaluate your dental problem or call our office to check with us if you believe you have a dental problem that needs immediate treatment.

Preventing a Dental Emergency

Most, if not all, of these emergencies, can be prevented or avoided.

• Eat and drink healthy foods and liquids regularly.
• Limit or stop the usage of tobacco and alcohol.
• Wear a mouthguard, helmet, or facemask during sporting activities.
• Regularly brush your teeth and floss
• Make regular appointments to see your dentist for a checkup to catch and deal with dental issues before they become emergencies down the road.

Dentistry at Bonney Lake understands that emergencies happen and we are ready to assist you in your time of need. Please call us or visit our website today if you have any questions about emergency dental care. Being prepared can save your teeth and your life.