Quick Summary
Some dental emergencies are obvious, such as immense pain, a knocked-out tooth or bleeding that will not stop. Others are less clear. A cracked or fractured tooth is serious because the damage is often internal as well as external, so book an emergency appointment. A lost filling can leave the root exposed and cause intense pain. A lost crown and an abscess also need prompt attention.
It may be obvious when you’re in a situation that requires immediate treatment by a dentist. Perhaps you’re in immense pain, or you’ve had a tooth knocked out or bleeding that won’t stop. Examples like this make it easy to decide you need help right away, but sometimes it’s not as clear. What are some other problems that may require emergency dental treatment?
Cracked teeth
A cracked or fractured tooth is serious, and often means that the tooth has been damaged both on the inside and the outside. Many times the tooth can’t be saved. If your tooth is broken, schedule an emergency appointment immediately. Remember, a cracked tooth is different than a chipped tooth, which is not as serious. You can usually wait to see your dentist at the next available opportunity for a chipped tooth.
Lost fillings
Some lost fillings require immediate care to avoid worse issues. Fillings protect your tooth’s root from exposure, so if the filling falls out your root can be uncovered and cause intense pain. There is also increased risk for damage to your tooth’s structure, so seeing your dentist as soon as possible is suggested.
Lost crown
If your crown falls out, call your dentist for an appointment as soon as possible. Until you can see the dentist, try putting the crown back in place using an over-the-counter dental adhesive. Do not use any products like Super Glue. If the crown won’t stay in place, make sure you take it to your appointment with you so that it can be re-cemented correctly.
Abscess
If you have a painful swelling on your gum that resembles a pimple, it might be a serious condition called an abscess. It can damage gum tissue and teeth, as well as spread serious infection to your body. See your dentist immediately for proper treatment.
Emergency dentist in Billerica – Merry Dental, PC
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a chipped tooth the same as a cracked tooth?
No. A cracked or fractured tooth is serious and often means the tooth has been damaged both on the inside and the outside, so schedule an emergency appointment immediately. A chipped tooth is not as serious, and you can usually wait to see your dentist at the next available opportunity.
What should I do if a crown falls out?
Call your dentist for an appointment as soon as possible. Until you can be seen, try putting the crown back in place with an over-the-counter dental adhesive. Do not use products such as Super Glue. If the crown will not stay in place, take it with you to your appointment so it can be re-cemented correctly.
Why does a lost filling need urgent attention?
Fillings protect the tooth's root from exposure. If the filling falls out, the root can be uncovered and cause intense pain, and there is an increased risk of damage to the tooth's structure.
What does an abscess look like?
An abscess can appear as a painful swelling on your gum that resembles a pimple. It can damage gum tissue and teeth and can spread serious infection to your body, so see your dentist immediately.
Merry Dental, 337 Boston Rd, Billerica, MA 01821. 978-404-5400. Serving Billerica, Lowell, Chelmsford, Tewksbury, Burlington and Bedford.