Emergency Dental Care Madison, AL
Dental emergencies can cause significant pain, fear, and major inconveniences.
Whether it is a sudden toothache, a fractured tooth, or a knocked-out tooth, understanding how to manage a dental crisis can be crucial in preserving your smile and easing your discomfort.
At Singing River Dentistry, we offer emergency dental care to help you following an accidental dental injury.
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What Does Emergency Dental Care Mean?
A dental emergency refers to any situation that demands immediate attention, unlike the routine checkups that include cleaning, X-rays, and consultations every six months.
These emergencies demand prompt action because of severe pain, trauma to the mouth, or discomfort, which can be caused by bleeding, cuts on the gums, and the dislodgement or fracturing of teeth. While lost fillings or broken dental appliances are not considered major emergencies, prompt intervention is necessary.
Emergency Dental Services
If you experience a dental emergency, the first step is to contact your dentist for guidance. Our dentists in Madison, AL provide an emergency contact number for situations outside of regular office hours.
In the absence of a dentist, seek help from an urgent care facility or the closest emergency room. Below, we look at common dental emergencies you should know about.
Sudden Tooth Loss
Losing a tooth as an adult can be both painful and unfortunate for your appearance. If a tooth gets knocked out, falls out, or feels loose, it is crucial to contact Singing River Dentistry immediately. Acting promptly could mean the tooth can still be saved and possibly reinserted.
Time is of the essence! So, whether a soccer ball meets your face or your tooth decides to join an apple, save that tooth and reach out to your dentist. Your dentist can guide you on how to preserve the tooth until you can make it to the office.
Gum Swelling and Bleeding
Swelling often indicates a significant infection, which can pose a potentially life-threatening situation if it is in your mouth. It is crucial to see a dentist promptly.
Swelling might occur in your gums, face, or even your lymph nodes. An untreated infection can enter your bloodstream, leading to severe health issues. Inform your dentist how long you have had swelling, its location, and any other signs of infection.
Sudden Severe Pain
If you are experiencing intense dental pain that keeps you up at night and spreads to your neck, jaw, or ear, it could show a severe dental problem.
Lying down might worsen the discomfort with this type of pain. You might also notice persistent throbbing in your mouth, sensitivity, or facial swelling. Visit your Madison, AL dentists for emergency dental care - they will conduct an examination and take X-rays to diagnose the issue promptly.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
The treatment for a cracked or broken tooth depends on its location and severity. Preserving the tooth is the top priority, so it is essential to see a dentist without delay.
When contacting your dentist, describe how the injury happened, if applicable. If you can locate the fractured piece, bring it along to the dentist. In some instances, broken teeth can be grafted back into place.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Severe soft tissue injuries, such as those affecting the tongue, gums, and lips, can cause bleeding. Such injuries are an emergency that should be addressed as soon as possible.
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To manage the bleeding, rinse your mouth twice with a salt-water solution and press the bleeding site using a tea bag to apply pressure.
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Hold it in place for 15 to 20 minutes - - tea contains tannic acid, which helps constrict blood vessels and reduce bleeding.
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To control bleeding and ease pain, hold a cold compress against the outside of your mouth or cheek in the affected area for five to 10 minutes.
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If the bleeding persists, seek immediate professional help with your emergency dentist in Madison, AL. |
Popping Jaw Emergency
If you feel pain, notice a popping sensation, or if your jaw feels locked, it is advisable to schedule an appointment for immediate dental care in Madison, AL.
For most individuals, our jaws move smoothly without any problems. However, those with TMJ may encounter moments when their jaw slips and feels stuck. Symptoms can include pain during chewing, clicking or grinding noise when the jaw is open, or restricted movement. It is recommended to have your dentist assess the extent of your TMJ condition to prevent potential complications.
Broken Dental Restorations
With time, older dental restorations may dislodge or fall out. In case you have a missing or damaged filling, you can temporarily place a piece of sugarless gum into the cavity (sugar-filled gum can cause discomfort) or use an over-the-counter dental cement.
For a broken dental crown or bridge, it is essential to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible and bring the restoration along. If feasible, reposition the restoration in its place. Prior to reinsertion, apply dental cement or toothpaste on the internal surface to assist in holding the restoration securely.
How Do I Know If I Need Emergency Dental Services?
Determining when you need emergency dental care is crucial. During a dental emergency, you must contact your emergency dentist in Madison, AL promptly.
Emergencies often involve unforeseen incidents or injuries affecting your teeth or gums and can be accompanied by severe pain, swelling, or bleeding. Some examples of dental emergencies include broken teeth, fractured jaw, and injured gums, among others.
Issues such as a lost crown or chipped tooth do not usually qualify as dental emergencies. However, if you encounter one of these problems, it is still important to contact your dentist and inquire about securing an appointment as soon as possible.
A sudden occurrence of a growth or sore in your mouth should be a cause for alarm. While you do not need emergency dentistry services, you need an evaluation as soon as possible.
If you spot a growth in your mouth, it is wise to contact your dentist. A persistent growth or sore could indicate oral cancer. A dentist can perform an oral cancer screening and use devices to detect abnormalities not visible to the naked eye.
Dental emergencies occur when you least expect them. They may even happen in the dead of the night when most clinics are not operational. Knowing who to call at such a time is very crucial. If you are facing any of the urgent dental concerns mentioned above, Singing River Dentistry dental experts are ready to help. Our dentists offer exceptional emergency dental services. Reach out to our experts at 256 - 562 - 4001, and we will make room for you.
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