You’ve been as safe as possible during the COVID-19 pandemic. You’ve made sure to social distance yourself from others and have worn a mask each time you’ve gone out. Unfortunately, you’ve started to have a pain in your mouth that just won’t go away. During the pandemic, most dental practices are only seeing patients on an emergency basis. You want to get your tooth examined but aren’t sure if it would be considered an emergency. Read on to learn what types of ailments you should schedule an emergency appointment for.
Common Forms of Dental Emergencies
It can be hard to distinguish if you’re having a dental emergency by yourself. However, certain types of conditions should always be treated as emergencies and be seen right away. The most common are:
- Severe Pain: Pandemic or not, any type of severe lingering pain in your mouth should be treated immediately. This is often indicative of a more serious condition and should be diagnosed by an emergency dentist. If your pain is accompanied by swelling, it may be indicative of an abscessed, or infected, tooth. If the infection reaches the pulp of your tooth, you may need a root canal.
- Chipped or Cracked Teeth: If part of your tooth chips off, it has the potential to cut into your lips and gums. It also may cause your tooth become sensitive. An emergency dentist will be able to fix you up in no time.
- Knocked Out Teeth: Perhaps you’ve been in an accident and knocked out a tooth. You’ll want to see your emergency dentist. This is equally true if a tooth has come loose due to trauma. They will be able to gauge is the tooth is restorable.
- Broken Dental Work: When dental work like crowns, bridges, and fillings break or fall off, it’s important to get them replaced quickly. This is also true for prosthetics like dentures.
Any time you’re in extreme pain or break something in your mouth, it’s time to visit your dentist. Emergency dentists are specially trained to get you out of pain quickly. They are taking even greater precautions than before to keep you safe during your appointment.
About the Author
Dr. Kristen Petulla knows that there’s no good time to have a dental emergency. She loves to get her patients back to full health efficiently and swiftly. Since attending the University of Maryland School of Dentistry for her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, she has been devoted to continuing her education. She has completed training at renowned dental institutions, like the Las Vegas Institute and the Astra Dental Headquarter. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, she and the rest of the team at South Jersey Cosmetic & Family Dentistry would love to help. Call their office at (856) 282-0631 or send them an email.