Around seventy-five percent of Canadians visit a dentist each year.
However, just because you have your annual appointment doesn't mean that you know what to do in an emergency situation.
So, what are the biggest signs you should seek emergency dental care rather than waiting for your regularly-scheduled appointment?
Read on to learn about the top signs you'll need emergency dental care.
1. Pain
If you're in persistent and ongoing pain, or if your pain has come on suddenly and severely, it's time to seek dental treatment ASAP. Pain is often a symptom that there's a major issue.
Think about what happened around the time you started being in pain so that your dentist can deduce what might be triggering it. If your pain is triggered by the cold, and it's centered on a specific tooth or area, for example, it could be a sign you have a cavity.
2. You Break a Tooth
It might seem obvious, but if you suddenly break or lose a tooth, you do need to see a dentist to get it repaired. A cracked or broken tooth can allow bacteria to fester in your mouth, which could cause you to get a tooth infection.
Plus, if it's just a small fracture, your dentist may be able to repair it before it breaks entirely, which will save you from needing more extensive dental care.
And, if you’ve lost your tooth entirely, your dentist may be able to re-implant it if you get dental care quickly enough. However, losing a random tooth without injury as an adult could still be a sign of a more significant issue that will need to be examined.
3. Side Effects
If you've recently had dental treatment or surgery, you may experience side effects. Some of these are normal, and others might be a sign of a dental emergency.
So, before or after you have treatment, ask your dentist about possible side effects. Your dentist can let you know what side effects should trigger an emergency visit and which side effects you should just wait out.
4. Bleeding Gums
Some bleeding from your gums after flossing can be normal, although it can be a sign of gingivitis. However, sudden or severe bleeding is a major cause for concern.
This is particularly true if you're also struggling with swelling in the area and mouth pain. The importance of dental care in this situation cannot be underestimated - bleeding gums can be a symptom of problems like periodontal disease.
5. Losing a Filling or Crown
If your filling or crown falls out of your mouth, it can cause a lot of the same problems as a lost or broken tooth. A dentist can replace your filing to prevent any of these issues from arising.
Prepare to Get Emergency Dental Care Today
If you have a family dentist, it's less likely you'll need emergency dental care - but it's always important to be prepared.
Are you looking for a family dentist in Lethbridge, Alberta? Book an appointment with one of the dentists at Integrity Dental today.