Regardless of age, every person should see their dentist at least once in six months. Regular dental checkups and oral exams can go a long way in preventing many common concerns affecting teeth and gums. However, there are often situations that demand immediate intervention. Dental emergencies shouldn’t be taken lightly, and in this post, we will discuss a few situations when you should see your San Jose dentist immediately.
An unbearable toothache
Anyone who has experienced a toothache knows how hard it can get to manage the symptoms. The pain may radiate to other parts of the face, leading to severe discomfort. Toothaches could be a sign of underlying dental disease, like infection, gum disease, and decay. Call your dentist right away for an appointment, and if they aren’t immediately available, ask the staff whether you can take a pain reliever for now. If there is evident swelling, you can also use a cold compress on the cheeks on the affected side.
A cracked tooth
You may have a cracked tooth for many reasons, such as infection, decay, or extensive bite pressure. A tooth that is cracked or chipped must be fixed immediately. If there is bleeding, you can rinse your mouth and place a gauze to stop the bleeding. You can also use a cold compress on the cheeks to reduce the pain and bring down the swelling, but eventually, you have to see a dentist.
A tooth knocked off
Following an injury or sudden impact, a tooth may be knocked out of position. Do not hold the tooth by the roots. Instead, hold it carefully by the crown and rinse it under clean water. If possible, place the tooth back in the socket, but do not put any pressure. When there is no way to place the tooth back, put it in milk in a clean container. In such situations, you don’t have the time to wait. Visit your dentist, and there might be a chance of getting the tooth in place if treated within an hour.
An abscess
An abscess refers to an infection in the gums, which often looks like a small pimple. Left untreated, the pain can be hard to bear and can radiate to the jaw and face. See your dentist as soon as you can, and if you have to wait, you can rinse the mouth with a saline solution until the dental clinic is open.
A broken crown/bridge
Dental restorations can break due to pressure and use, and if you have a broken or chipped crown or a bridge that has come off, you have to check with the dentist soon. In some cases, they may be able to fix the restoration back in place, while in other situations, a new restoration may be necessary. Your dentist will tell you more about the options. It can take two appointments to get a new crown or bridge.
Selecting the right dental practice in San Jose
Since we are talking about emergencies, make sure to check that aspect when selecting a clinic. You also need to check the qualifications and credentials of the practicing dentists and whether they offer a mix of various treatments like cosmetic, endodontic, periodontic, and restorative care. A good clinic is one that makes you feel welcome and treats you as a priority. When in an emergency, ask how you can contact the staff and schedule an appointment. Also, if the practice can cater to the needs of your entire family, that is always an advantage. Other things to check include location & accessibility, accepted insurance plans, and whether they offer flexible payment plans for certain treatments.
Don’t sit with a dental emergency – call your dentist in San Jose NOW!
