You should book regular appointments with your dentist to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. While oral hygiene habits and dental checkups can help avoid some common dental concerns, there are situations when you may need immediate assistance. Here are some circumstances when you should see an emergency dentist in Scottsdale, AZ.
Severe toothache
While pain in a tooth may not seem like an emergency, symptoms can get worse in no time. Toothaches could be related to injuries, decay, gum disease, and cavities and need immediate attention. Call your dental practice and ask if you can take an over-the-counter painkiller to reduce the pain. Ask when you can see your dentist and schedule an appointment.
Broken teeth
If you have a chipped or broken tooth, you may experience severe pain and discomfort. There could be additional symptoms leading to serious complications. The first step in such circumstances is to rinse your mouth using warm water. You can also use a cold compress to keep the swelling in control. Talk to an emergency dentist and ask when you can visit without delay.
An avulsed tooth
If a permanent tooth is knocked out of place, you could have unbearable pain and bleeding. Do not touch the tooth from its roots, and try to place it back in the socket. If that is not viable, consider placing it in a glass of milk or water. Call your dentist immediately. If you get to the clinic within an hour, there is a possibility that the dentist will be able to save the tooth.
An abscessed tooth
If a pocket of pus appears around the teeth or in the surrounding gums, there could be an infection that needs treatment. You may also have pain in the tooth, which may radiate to your entire face. See an emergency dentist and ask them about managing the symptoms. You may need root planing and scaling if there are evident signs of gum disease.
A broken restoration
Most restorations, such as crowns and bridges, are prone to breakage. If you have a broken crown or when restorations have come off, you need to see an emergency dentist soon. The same is true for braces, which can come off or get displaced.
Do not ignore a dental emergency. Find a clinic in Scottsdale that offers services without delay, and keep their number handy on your phone. In most of the above situations, you shouldn’t have to wait a day to get help.