There’s nothing worse than waking up in the middle of the night with a throbbing toothache. Many people don’t realize that they can often get emergency dental treatment 24 hours a day. When an emergency arises, it’s time to visit Angstadt Family Dental in Exton PA right away.
Not every dental problem is considered a true emergency. Knowing what constitutes a dental emergency is important. The following problems may indicate it’s time to be evaluated by a dentist as soon as possible.
Abscess or Infection
An abscess is a painful lump that forms around a tooth or on the gum tissue. It is often the first sign of a full-blown tooth infection. Abscesses often appear suddenly and without warning. They should be treated by a dentist immediately to avoid complications.
Tooth infections are very serious. If left untreated, the infection may quickly enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body. A dentist will usually drain the abscess and prescribe a strong antibiotic to fight the infection.
A Throbbing Toothache
Toothaches are one of the most common reasons patients seek treatment at Angstadt Family Dental in Exton PA. Not all toothaches are dangerous, however. In many cases, toothaches are caused by sensitivity and can be treated with a desensitizing toothpaste.
However, some toothaches are warning signs of something much worse. If a toothache is constant or interrupts sleep, an emergency dental appointment is suggested. This is often the sign of an infected or dying tooth nerve. Medical intervention is needed to save the tooth.
Broken Tooth
A severely broken tooth is another reason to visit an emergency dentist. This type of damage is often the result of severe decay or an unexpected facial injury. In extreme circumstances, the entire tooth may be knocked out.
Always try to bring the missing tooth or broken portions to the dentist. If the root is not damaged, the dentist may be able to reinsert the tooth. Broken teeth may be cosmetically corrected, unless the root is fractured, in which case extraction may be suggested.
Many dental emergencies are caused by poor dental hygiene practices or unexpected accidents. Click Here to learn about the importance of routine dental checkups. Whether a dental emergency is caused by neglect or injury, don’t hesitate to call a dentist for help.
