Dental Emergencies: When Should I See an Emergency Dentist?

Several common dental emergencies require immediate attention from a dentist. As Tempe’s top dentists, patients often ask about a dental emergency and what needs a same-day emergency dentist appointment. Some dental emergencies that should have an emergency dental appointment include:

1. Toothache: Severe tooth pain can indicate an underlying dental issue, such as tooth decay, gum infection, or dental abscess. Toothaches can be extremely uncomfortable and may require prompt evaluation and treatment by a dentist to relieve pain and address the underlying cause.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth: Also known as an avulsed tooth, a knocked-out tooth is one type of dental emergency requiring urgent care. With prompt action, it may be possible to save a tooth knocked out of its socket. Patients should rinse the tooth gently with clean water, avoid touching the root, and attempt to reinsert the tooth into the socket, if possible. If that’s not feasible, seek an emergency dental appointment (immediate dental care), and store the tooth in milk or saliva.
3. Broken or Fractured Tooth: Teeth can break or fracture for various reasons, such as trauma, biting on hard objects, or underlying dental conditions. A broken or fractured tooth may cause pain, sensitivity, and potential damage to the tooth’s pulp or nerves. Prompt dental evaluation and treatment are necessary to prevent further damage and restore the tooth’s function and appearance.
4. Dental Abscess: A painful and potentially serious condition, a dental abscess occurs when a bacterial infection affects the tooth’s root or surrounding gum tissue. Dental abscesses can cause severe pain, swelling, and fever. Immediate dental care is required to drain the abscess, control the infection, and prevent further complications.
5. Dislodged Dental Restoration: Dental restorations such as crowns, fillings, or veneers can become dislodged or fall out due to trauma, decay, or wear and tear. Dislodged dental restorations can cause sensitivity and tooth pain and affect the tooth’s function and aesthetics. Prompt dental care is needed to reattach or replace the dental restoration and prevent further damage to the tooth.
6. Broken Orthodontic Appliance: Patients with orthodontic appliances such as braces or retainers may experience emergencies such as broken wires, brackets, or bands. These can cause discomfort, mouth sores, or affect the effectiveness of the orthodontic treatment. Patients should seek prompt care from their orthodontist to address the issue and prevent disruption to their orthodontic treatment plan.
7. Soft Tissue Injuries: Injuries to the soft tissues of your mouth, such as the tongue, lips, or gums, can also be dental emergencies. These injuries can result from trauma, accidental bites, or other accidents. Immediate evaluation and treatment by a dentist may be necessary to manage bleeding, pain, and prevent complications.

In Case of a Dental Emergency

It’s important to note that in case of a dental emergency, it’s best to contact your dentist or seek urgent dental care as soon as possible for proper evaluation and treatment. Delaying or ignoring a dental emergency can lead to further complications and potentially more extensive and costly treatments.

Call your gentle Tempe dentists if you have a dental emergency. We will work with you to get an appointment scheduled as soon as possible. We typically can offer same day or next day emergency dentist appointments.