What is considered a dental emergency?

 

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, most businesses have been forced to close for public health reasons, including dental health facilities. While some still operate, experts such as San Diego orthodontist Dr. Kami Hoss urges people to see their dentists only when there is a dental emergency. However, it may be vague to some people what a dental emergency is. Would a cracked teeth constitute as an emergency? 

Image source: absolutedental.com

A dental emergency revolves around three main factors: pain, the ability to function, and urgency. If your dental problem doesn’t involve pain, doesn’t impair your daily functions, and can be sorted out later rather than sooner, then it isn’t an emergency. Here are some examples that may help, but keep in mind that cases may vary.

If the wires of your braces suddenly break, that constitutes as a dental emergency. Not only could the wires potentially hurt your mouth, prolonged negligence of broken braces could undo months’ worth of dental work. 

Image source: absolutedental.com

Severe pain and bleeding are two signs of a dental emergency, especially if you don’t know what is causing it. Simply dealing with the pain through medication could work at first but not attacking the source of the pain can only make matters worse. 

For adults, having loose teeth is also considered a dental emergency. Even if you don’t feel any discomfort or pain, adults are not supposed to have loose teeth, according to Dr. Kami Hoss.

Lastly, infections are automatically to be treated as emergencies. Infections can be life-threatening and treatment should not be delayed. If swelling is already noticeable in your mouth or in your face, or you begin to feel knots in your gums, see a dentist immediately.

Dr. Kami Hoss has decades of experience in dentistry and has treated more than 10,000 patients. He has earned a reputation for making dental care accessible for families and fun for children. He is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and San Diego Dental Society. For more information on Dr. Hoss and his practice, visit this website.

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