What Are Common Dental Emergencies?
What Are Common Dental Emergencies?
At Georgetown Dental Professionals, we know dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them. Whether it’s sudden pain, an injury, or a damaged restoration, knowing what qualifies as an emergency can help you act quickly and protect your smile. In these situations, seeking prompt care from our emergency dentists in Jenison, MI, can make all the difference.
Severe Toothache
A sudden, intense toothache is one of the most common dental emergencies. While mild discomfort may come from temporary sensitivity, sharp or persistent pain can signal a deeper issue such as decay, infection, or even an abscess. If you experience swelling along with the pain, it’s especially important to see one of our Jenison emergency dentists immediately to prevent the problem from spreading.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
Accidents happen, and a cracked or chipped tooth can cause both cosmetic and functional problems. If the fracture is minor, it may just affect the appearance, but deeper breaks can expose the inner layers of the tooth, leaving it vulnerable to infection. Saving the broken fragment (if possible) and rinsing your mouth with warm water until you see one of our emergency dentists is the best first step.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. With quick action, the tooth can sometimes be saved. If this happens, gently rinse the tooth (without touching the root) and try to place it back in the socket. If that’s not possible, keep it submerged in milk and get to our office right away. Time is critical—urgent dental care within an hour offers the best chance of saving the tooth.
Lost or Damaged Dental Restoration
Fillings, crowns, and other restorations are meant to protect and strengthen teeth, but they can sometimes come loose or fall out. This not only affects your comfort but also leaves the tooth exposed to damage or decay. If you lose a crown, try to bring it with you to your emergency dental visit, as it may be possible to reattach it.
Dental Abscess
An abscess is a serious infection that develops around the root of a tooth or in the gums. Symptoms may include swelling, severe pain, fever, or a pimple-like bump on the gums. Abscesses require immediate attention, as untreated infections can spread and cause significant health complications.
When to Call Our Emergency Dentists
If you’re ever unsure whether your situation counts as an emergency, it’s best to err on the side of caution. Issues like bleeding that won’t stop, injuries to the mouth, or extreme pain should always be treated as urgent. Prompt care can not only relieve pain but also prevent long-term dental problems.
Schedule an Emergency Appointment
At Georgetown Dental Professionals, our team is ready to provide compassionate and effective care when you need it most. If you or a loved one is facing a dental emergency, don’t wait—reach out to our emergency dentists in Jenison, MI, for immediate assistance and peace of mind. Call Georgetown Dental Professionals at (616) 457-9191 or request an appointment online through our website.