We all know that visiting the dentist on a regular basis is the best way to prevent serious oral issues from developing. Still, there are also times when certain situations cannot wait.
The main issue is being able to tell when an issue requires immediate attention as opposed to if it can be put off without increasing the risk of encountering additional complications.
As this is a question which you might have to address sooner or later, it is a good idea to take a look at what the experts have to say. You can then make an informed decision without worrying about incurring further damage.
What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?
There are certain situations that will need to be addressed by a professional as soon as possible. The most obvious example is if you happen to be in a great deal of pain (as well as this pain occurs suddenly).
Swelling within the mouth could likewise signal an infection; a scenario that needs to be diagnosed by a trained professional. Profuse bleeding (from a cut or immediately following a dental procedure) is a final problem that should be looked after straight away.
What Situations are Serious but Don’t Require Emergency Attention?
The good news is that some other situations might not require immediate attention. For instance, you might have lost the amalgam that has been protecting your cavity.
Restorative work such as bridges and veneers may likewise become loose or even fall out on occasion. Minor chips on the surface of a tooth are additional situations that can wait. However, severe cracks or instances when you suspect that the root may have become exposed will require intervention sooner as opposed to later.
Always Consult with a Professional
Still, we need to keep in mind that there can be certain situations that are difficult to self-diagnose without professional advice. For example, what if the tooth chip appears minor and you are experiencing a significant amount of pain?
It is always better to be safe as opposed to sorry.
If you believe that a more profound issue may exist or of the condition is becoming steadily worse, it is prudent to contact a dentist in order to schedule an emergency appointment. He or she will be able to quickly diagnose the problem before it evolves into a situation that might require more in-depth intervention.