Dental emergencies can strike when we least expect them, causing sudden pain and discomfort that require immediate attention. From excruciating toothaches to unexpected injuries, these situations can be both distressing and unsettling. Understanding how to recognize and respond to dental emergencies is crucial for maintaining oral health and overall well-being.
In this brief overview, we will delve into some common dental emergencies and discuss the importance of seeking prompt professional care to ensure a swift and effective resolution.
If you are unsure, that an emergency is medical or dental first call 911 and they will guide you to the proper venue to solve your emergency issues.
1. What happens if your tooth is bleeding when it breaks?
If your tooth is bleeding when it breaks, it could indicate damage to the blood vessels within the tooth or surrounding tissues. Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to control the bleeding and see a dentist immediately for evaluation and treatment.
2. I lost my dental crown. What should I do?
If possible, retain the crown and promptly schedule an appointment with your dentist. To safeguard the exposed tooth, you can apply temporary dental cement until you visit your dentist.
3. If the gums start swelling in a short time, what can be the reason?
Swelling of the gums can be caused by various factors, such as gum infection, injury, or an abscessed tooth. It's important to see a dentist to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment.
4. When I bend down, my upper teeth start hurting. Why?
Pain in the upper teeth when bending down can be due to sinus congestion or sinusitis. The sinuses are located above the upper teeth, and when they become inflamed, pressure can be felt in the teeth. If the pain persists or worsens, it's recommended to consult a healthcare professional.
5. When I run, my jaw, neck, and arm start hurting. Why?
Pain upon physical activity could indicate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction or a problem. Discomfort originating from the TMJ can lead to referred pain in other areas. It is advisable to seek consultation with both a dentist and a medical professional for a thorough evaluation and consideration of treatment options, as well as to exclude any potential systemic issues.
6. When I wake up, my jaw is hurting. Why?
Waking up with jaw pain could be a symptom of bruxism (teeth grinding) or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. It's recommended to see a dentist who can evaluate your symptoms and provide appropriate recommendations or treatments.
7. What is the yellow dot on my gums?
A yellow dot on the gums could be an indication of an oral ulcer or a build-up of plaque. It's advisable to see a dentist for an examination and diagnosis.
8. Why is there throbbing in my tooth?
Throbbing tooth pain is often a sign of tooth infection or inflammation. It's crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible for an examination and necessary treatment to prevent further complications.
9. What antibiotic is good for a gum infection or tooth infection?
Antibiotics are prescribed by dentists based on the specific type and severity of the infection. Commonly prescribed antibiotics for gum or tooth infections include penicillin, amoxicillin, and clindamycin. However, only a dentist can determine the appropriate antibiotic for your specific condition.
10. My tooth and my ear hurt at the same time. Why?
Tooth and ear pain occurring simultaneously could be indicative of referred pain, where pain originating from one area is felt in another. It's recommended to see a dentist who can evaluate your symptoms and determine the underlying cause.
11. My tooth hurts with hot but feels good with cold. Why?
Sensitivity to hot temperatures and relief with cold can indicate a possible nerve inflammation or dental pulp issue. It's important to visit a dentist for an examination to determine the cause of the sensitivity and receive appropriate treatment.
12. When I bite down, one of my teeth feels like it touches before other teeth. Why?
Uneven contact when biting down can be caused by various factors, such as tooth misalignment, bite issues, or tooth wear. It's advisable to consult a dentist who can evaluate your bite and provide suitable recommendations or treatments.
13. What should I do if my tooth gets knocked out?
Pick up the tooth by its crown (the top part), rinse it gently with water, place it in milk or saliva, and seek immediate dental treatment. (Remember to bring the knocked-out tooth with you to the dentist.)
14. How can I stop bleeding after a dental injury?
Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to the bleeding area. If bleeding persists or is severe, seek immediate dental care.
15. What should I do if I have a severe toothache?
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater, apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth, and take over-the-counter pain relievers. See a dentist as soon as possible.
16. What can I do for a broken tooth?
Rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and see a dentist immediately for treatment options.
17. How can I relieve a toothache at home temporarily?
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater, apply a cold compress, and take over-the-counter pain relievers. However, it's important to see a dentist for a proper diagnosis.
18. What should I do if I have a dental abscess?
An abscess is a serious dental emergency. Rinse your mouth with mild saltwater and contact your dentist immediately. They may prescribe antibiotics and perform a root canal or drain the abscess to prevent the infection from spreading.
19. How can I manage a broken dental filling or crown?
Keep any broken pieces, rinse your mouth with warm water, and visit a dentist promptly to repair or replace the filling or crown.
20. My braces are causing severe mouth irritation. What can I do?
You can apply orthodontic wax to the rough edges or sharp edges to alleviate irritation. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort. If the irritation persists or becomes severe contact your dentist for adjustments. You may also have an allergy to one of the components or metals being used in your braces, you can try Invisalign or clear retainers instead
21. What should I do if I have a cracked tooth?
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater, apply a cold compress, and see a dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.
22. How can I alleviate pain from a mouth ulcer?
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater, apply over-the-counter oral gels or creams, and avoid spicy or acidic foods. If the ulcer persists, consult a dentist.
23. What should I do if something is stuck between my teeth?
Gently try to remove it with dental floss, avoiding sharp objects. If unsuccessful, see a dentist who can safely remove the object.
24. How can I manage a bitten lip or tongue?
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and if bleeding is severe or doesn't stop, seek dental or medical care.
25. What should I do if my dental braces break or cause injury?
If a wire or bracket breaks, cover it with dental wax and see your dentist promptly for repair. If it causes injury, seek immediate dental or medical care.
26. How can I relieve pain from a tooth sensitivity?
Use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth, avoid extremely hot or cold foods, and see a dentist if the sensitivity persists or worsens.
27. What should I do if I have a jaw injury or pain?
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, avoid hard foods, and see a dentist or doctor if the pain or injury is severe.
28. How can I manage a dental emergency while traveling?
Research and locate dental clinics in the area you're traveling to before your trip. Carry a dental first aid kit with items like gauze, pain relievers, and contact information for your regular dentist.
29. What should I do if I have a loose tooth?
Avoid wiggling or touching the loose tooth, eat soft foods, and see a dentist immediately for evaluation and appropriate treatment.
30. How can I alleviate discomfort from a broken denture?
Avoid using the broken denture, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater, and see a dentist who can repair or replace it.
31. What should I do if I have a gum injury or cut?
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater, apply gentle pressure to stop bleeding, and see a dentist if the injury is severe or doesn't heal.
32. How can I manage a tooth fracture?
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater, apply a cold compress, and see a dentist as soon as possible for evaluation and treatment options.
33. Is there an emergency dentist in Boston?
Many dental offices accept emergency visits. If it's a medical emergency, call 911. If it's a dental problem, you can text your issue in English or Spanish at 617-523-4444.
34. What should I do if I have a sudden tooth sensitivity to hot or cold?
Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth, avoid extreme temperatures, and see a dentist if the sensitivity persists or worsens.
35. How can I relieve pain from a dental gum abscess?
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater, take over-the-counter pain relievers, and see a dentist as soon as possible for appropriate treatment.
36. What should I do if I have a broken orthodontic retainer?
Keep any broken pieces, contact your orthodontist for guidance, and schedule an appointment for repair or replacement.
37. I accidentally bit my lip or tongue, and it's bleeding. What should I do?
Rinse your mouth with water and apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to control bleeding. If bleeding persists or is severe, visit the emergency room or contact your dentist.
38. How can I manage a broken or chipped tooth if I can't see a dentist immediately?
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater, apply dental wax to any sharp edges, and see a dentist as soon as possible.
39. I have a foreign object stuck between my teeth. How can I remove it?
First, gently, try with a toothpick, if you are unable to take it out, you can try to bring a floss from the tongue slide and slide the entire floss to the outside to remove it safely. If you are unsuccessful, contact your dentist immediately. Avoid using sharp or pointed instruments to prevent injury or further, pushing it beneath the gums . Many times seeds from raspberries, strawberries, tomatoes, popcorn, or candy fragments can be lodged or stuck between your teeth if it is always the same spot this indicates an issue that needs to be addressed immediately.
40. How can I prevent dental emergencies in the future?
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups. Avoid chewing on hard objects and wear a mouthguard during sports activities to protect your teeth from injuries.
In conclusion, dental emergencies can be unsettling and painful experiences, but knowing how to identify them and respond promptly is essential.
Whether it's a severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or any other urgent dental issue, seeking immediate care from a qualified dentist in Boston or a prosthodontist in Boston can make all the difference in preserving your oral health and relieving discomfort. Remember that early intervention is key to preventing further complications.
We are pleased to extend a warm welcome to our practice, specializing in emergency dental care. At Faneuil Hall Dental, our patients' urgent dental needs always come first. As a dedicated emergency dental care facility, we are focused on delivering the highest level of dental care during those critical moments of distress. Our practice, staffed with qualified dentists and Maxillofacial prosthodontists in Boston, is unwaveringly committed to providing top-notch, friendly service within a gentle and compassionate environment, using state-of-the-art dental materials and technology. We aim to build enduring patient relationships and provide exceptional emergency oral healthcare when you need it most, including Boston maxillofacial services.
Find out if your first visit is 100% covered by insurance.
Text the name of your employer to:
617-523-4444
