Different Types of Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies can be scary and uncertain, especially if you do not know how to handle them. Luckily, your dentist can help you understand the best way to deal with common dental emergencies. Learn more about how to handle these situations with Dr. Karl Meek in Nottingham, MD.

What are some common dental emergencies?

• Broken Tooth: A broken tooth, while it does not always cause pain at first, can damage the tooth’s nerve, making fast treatment necessary to prevent further pain. If you experience a broken tooth, get a hold of your dentist as soon as possible and try to find any pieces which may have fallen and take them with you to your appointment.
• Knocked Out Tooth: Knocking out a tooth is a painful and frightening experience which requires immediate dental care. If possible, find the tooth and wash it off gently, taking care to hold it by the crown, not touch the root, and not scrub any remaining tissue off of the tooth. Try to replace the tooth into its socket, stopping immediately if you experience pain or resistance. Keep the tooth in a container of milk and bring it with you to your emergency dental appointment.
• Dental Abscess: A dental abscess presents itself as a bump or what appears as a pimple on the gum tissue. An abscess is the sign of an infection and should be seen by a dentist as soon as possible. This is particularly important since the infection can spread to other parts of the body.
• Toothache: If you experience a toothache, it is crucial that you see your dentist quickly. A toothache is a sure sign that tooth decay has reached through the tooth to its inner pulp chamber and nerve. At this stage, a root canal can normally restore the tooth and a dental crown will help preserve its natural structure.

Can I prevent dental emergencies in Nottingham? 
One can never truly prevent a dental emergency. However, wearing the proper mouth protection while playing sports or participating in contact activities can help prevent trauma to the tooth. Additionally, always see your dentist twice a year for regular dental examinations and cleanings to keep your teeth free of decay. This will prevent cavities which can result in broken teeth or toothaches.

For more information on dental emergencies, please contact Dr. Meek in Nottingham, MD. Call (410) 256-4720 to schedule your visit, whether a regular dental check-up or emergency appointment, with Dr. Meek today!