Now and then, life can throw you a curveball and, if that curveball is a dental emergency, don’t ignore it for long. After all, depending on the severity, you might require immediate dental care.
Here at North Pointe Dental Associates, we are home to some of the best dentists in Tampa. With more than 40 years of experience, we have handled plenty of dental emergencies. Today, we are sharing everything you need to know about emergencies and the symptoms to look out for.
What are dental emergencies?
A dental checkup includes a routine cleaning, oral exam, and consultations with your dentist at least twice a year. Conversely, a dental emergency is anything but routine. One minute, you could be riding your bicycle, and moments later you fall and suffer a chipped tooth.
Discomfort and pain are usually symptoms of more severe injuries, such as lacerations, and dislodged or fractured teeth. Other issues, such as lost fillings, are not technically considered emergencies, regardless of how inconvenient they might be. However, you should not delay visiting your dentist for too long, either.
Symptoms accompanying dental emergencies
If you have a cracked or broken tooth, it is best to rinse it with warm water and apply a cold compress to prevent or reduce any swelling. If, on the other hand, you knocked your tooth out, make sure not to touch the root, just the crown. Try to put it back in the socket, or keep it between the cheek and gum, until you arrive at our office. To address swelling, use a cold wet compress.
In case you endure lacerations or bites without any damage to your teeth, gently clean the area with water and seek medical attention if the wound requires stitches.
Not all dental emergencies are immediately obvious. If, for example, you experience fever, sour taste, or swelling, you might have an infection. An abscessed tooth will require antibiotics or a root canal. So, consult with your dentist as soon as possible. Other symptoms you should not ignore include swelling of the gums, swelling of the neck or mouth, and temperature sensitivity.
What to do in case of a dental emergency in Tampa, Florida
If you require immediate dental care, our doctors and staff are here to help during this painful experience. Don’t hesitate to contact us! You can come in during regular business hours and, if your emergency happens when we are closed, give a call anyway or complete one of our contact forms. We may be able to quickly answer your questions.
North Pointe Dental Associates offers a variety of dental services, ranging from cosmetic and general dentistry to dental emergencies. Our dentists will address your oral issues, prevent further damage, and relieve your pain.
