It can be hard to determine what is a dental emergency when you are experiencing tooth pain. Discomfort does not always mean you need an emergency dentist visit. But how do you know when discomfort becomes a serious problem? Not everyone will be quick to pick up the phone and dial their dentist. However, there are ways to determine if a dental issue you are experiencing is an emergency or not. Whether or not you have experienced a dental emergency before, they can be scary. We use our mouths every single day. Having dental issues can keep you from going about your normal life. It is important to stay on top of your dental health and prevent the need for emergency dental services.
What Is A Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency depends on your pain level. There is a difference between discomfort and pain. While discomfort can be annoying, it does not usually constitute a dental emergency. Once discomfort becomes pain, then most dental professionals would consider it a dental emergency. Pain can often be a sign of infection or damage to your teeth or jaw. If this is the case, it is important to reach out to your dentist as soon as possible.
If you feel that your pain is manageable, you will want to do some research on possible diagnoses before reaching out. If you have a sensitivity to extreme temperature change, you could have a cavity, which may not be considered an emergency. However, if you have a chipped or broken tooth, you could have an exposed root, which can cause high-sensitivity to everything. This requires the help of a dentist or an endodontist to fix the problem before it gets worse.
The pain in your mouth could mean there is an infection. If you suspect that the infection has reached the root of your tooth, root canal therapy is required to solve the issue. If you notice an alarming amount of inflammation, it is best to get help rather than try and deal with it yourself. Visible and physical signs of damage or infection are likely to be considered dental emergencies and most offices can take you sooner rather than later.
Does Blood When Flossing Mean There is An Emergency?
Occasionally, people discover blood while they are flossing or brushing their teeth. While gums do occasionally bleed when you are too aggressive, it may require an emergency dentist visit. However, if they bleed every time you brush or floss and they are sensitive, this could be the beginning of a serious dental problem. Gum disease affects millions of Americans every year. There are unfortunately no home remedies that help you overcome gum disease once it has developed. Finding a periodontic expert can help you protect your teeth and gums and keep you from developing further issues that require more work.
Reach Out Today for Dental Emergency Services
Most people will experience a dental emergency at some point in their lives. Understanding what is a dental emergency and what is not can save you trips to the dentist. It is important to find a dentist that has specialized services to ensure that your emergency is taken care of effectively. Marcus Black DDS offers a number of dental services to help you protect your smile. Some of the services we offer include:
- Professional Teeth Whitening
- No-Prep Veneers
- Preventive Dentistry Services
- Wisdom Teeth Extraction
- Dental Fillings
If you have a dental issue that is keeping you from completing everyday tasks, reach out for help today. Call 479.464.0900 to speak to one of our dental experts and see how we can help you. Do not let an emergency go unchecked. Call for help today.
