Sometimes, it can be hard to tell if your oral health problem is a dental emergency. After all, you don’t want to rush in to see your emergency dentist if there’s no need to, nor do you want to ignore a problem that is worse than it seems. If you’re wondering what qualifies as a dental emergency, here are a few common problems patients face and how soon you should be seen to treat them.
Urgent vs. Non-Urgent Dental Emergencies
When it comes to dental emergencies, there are two types: urgent and non-urgent. Urgent dental emergencies should be treated immediately, usually with a same-day appointment. Non-urgent emergencies may be able to wait a few days or more to be treated. Here are a few examples of each:
Urgent Dental Emergencies
- Knocked out tooth
- Partially dislodged tooth
- Chipped, broken, or cracked teeth in severe pain
- Bulges or swelling on gums (dental abscess)
- A severe toothache
Non-Urgent Dental Emergencies
- Dull toothache
- Bitten lips or tongue that stops bleeding
- Food stuck between the teeth
- A lost filling, crown, or dental bridge
- A tooth that is broken or cracked, but not painful
What to Do During a Dental Emergency
Now that you know what qualifies as a dental emergency, you likely want to know what you should do if you are experiencing one. Your first step should always be to call your emergency dentist. If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 immediately. If it is not a matter of life or death, calling your dentist directly will get you the fastest care. It will also help your dental team determine how soon you should be seen and what type of treatment you may need when you arrive. They can also provide you with care instructions for your injury to keep your mouth safe and keep you comfortable until you can be seen by your dentist.
Remember, dental emergencies can be very scary but keeping a level head and contacting your emergency dentist as soon as possible can help eliminate pain and protect your smile from further damage.
About Dr. Guo
Dr. Estella Guo earned her bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from Syracuse University, and her DDS from New York University in 2010, and has been practicing here in Texas for over a decade. Dr. Guo is a certified premier Invisalign provider and has logged countless hours of continuing education in oral health topics ranging from non-surgical cosmetic dentistry to biofilm.
If you are suffering from a dental emergency, Dr. Guo is proud to offer same-day, after-hours, and weekend emergency appointments. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please call West Loop Dental Aesthetics directly as soon as possible for assistance. We can be reached at 713-280-4441.