Dental emergencies do occur suddenly. Whether you are in the middle of dinner, sports activities, or a wake-up call at night when you experience pain, it is very important to know what the next step is to be taken. Some dental situations require immediate attention, and waiting too long may lead to irreparable damage or more pain. That’s why it’s a wise idea to learn about a dental clinic near you and find out what would qualify as a dental emergency.
In this blog, we’ll go over the top five most common dental emergencies people face and explain how each one is usually treated. This will help you stay calm and make smart decisions if an emergency ever happens to you or someone in your family.
1. Severe Toothache
Toothache is one of the top reasons why patients visit the emergency dental clinic. It is either a constant ache or a sharp, acute pain that persists. Often, it is due to tooth decay, a broken tooth, or an infection of the tooth. When you arrive at an emergency dentist in Toronto, the first step will usually be an X-ray to find out what’s causing the pain. Once the problem is identified, your dentist may suggest a filling, root canal, or even removal of the tooth if it’s too damaged to save. Pain relief is provided quickly, and if there’s an infection, antibiotics may also be prescribed.
No matter what, tooth pain should never be ignored. It’s often a sign of a bigger issue that will only get worse without treatment.
2. Broken or Chipped Tooth
A broken or chipped tooth can happen in many ways—biting into something hard, falling, or getting hit in the mouth during sports. The damage may be small, or it could expose the inside part of your tooth, causing pain and sensitivity. If you see a dentist in Toronto right away, they can repair the damage and protect your tooth. For small chips, dental bonding or a filling might be enough. For larger breaks, a crown could be needed. In some cases, if the damage reaches the pulp or nerve, a root canal may be required to save the tooth.
It’s important to act quickly to avoid further harm. Even a small chip can lead to bigger problems if left untreated.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is among the most essential dental emergencies. This often happens due to sports injuries, accidents, or sudden impacts to the face. When a tooth is completely knocked out, it can often be saved if you act fast.
Here’s how to treat emergency dentistry in this case: Pick up the tooth by the crown (the top part), not the root. Try placing it gently back in the socket if possible. If that’s not an option, put the tooth in milk or hold it in your mouth next to your cheek. This helps keep it moist until you can see a dentist.
An emergency dentist will clean the area and try to reinsert the tooth. A splint may be used to keep it in place while it heals. If the tooth can’t be saved, the dentist will talk to you about replacement options, such as an implant or bridge.
4. Swelling or Abscess
Swelling in the mouth or jaw is often a sign of infection, especially if it’s paired with pain, fever, or a bad taste. This usually means you have a dental abscess, which is a pocket of pus caused by bacteria. Abscesses can be very dangerous if not treated quickly because the infection can spread. People often ask, “what is emergency dentistry?” It includes conditions such as abscesses, in which a quick reaction is required to prevent pain and severe health issues.
Treatment usually involves draining the abscess and removing the source of the infection. This could be done through a root canal or tooth extraction. Antibiotics are also prescribed to help your body fight off the infection. If you notice swelling in your gums, jaw, or face, you should seek care immediately.
5. Lost Crown or Filling
Fillings and crowns protect damaged teeth, but they can wear out or come loose over time. When this happens, the tooth underneath is exposed to food, air, and pressure, which can cause pain and sensitivity. This also increases the risk of further damage or infection.
If this happens, it’s important to find an emergency dentist near you who can treat it before the tooth becomes worse. The dentist may put in a temporary crown or filling until a permanent one can be made. Keeping the exposed area clean and avoiding chewing on that side can help reduce pain and prevent further damage.
Why Quick Action Matters in Dental Emergencies
When you face a dental emergency, time does matter. Delaying care could mean losing a tooth, dealing with an infection, or ending up in even more pain. That’s why it’s important to know the signs of a dental emergency and get help from a trusted dental clinic as soon as possible.
Having an emergency dentist you trust is part of being prepared. Whether it’s a sharp toothache, a broken tooth, or swelling, getting professional care quickly can save you from bigger problems later on.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late – Visit Bloor Lansdowne Dental Centre Today!
Dental emergencies can be scary, but fast and gentle treatment can make all the difference. If you or a loved one is experiencing any dental emergency, don’t wait for it to get worse. Bloor Lansdowne Dental Centre is ready to help with expert care and immediate appointments. Call us now or book an appointment to get the relief and support you need.