What Is Emergency Dentistry?
Emergency dental services involve any treatment that lessens pain or repairs a damaged tooth. These procedures often include replacing broken or lost crowns, fixing a chipped tooth, or treating oral infections with antibiotics. While some of these issues may not seem like an emergency, research shows that poor oral health has the potential to raise your risk for other health problems, including cardiovascular issues, stroke, or diabetes risk.
When Do I Need Emergency Dental Services?
Mouth pain can have a negative effect on everything you do, so if you experience unusual or sudden oral symptoms, an emergency dental visit may be necessary. In fact, postponing a potentially urgent dental care issue often leads to more serious problems, including lasting damage to your teeth and gums. At Advance Dental Care Center, we handle a wide variety of dental emergencies, including:
Cracked, Chipped, or Broken Teeth
While a chipped tooth may not be painful, it affects your appearance and may signal a deeper injury in the tooth. Put a cold compress on the injured area, and contact us for care.
Lost Permanent Tooth
If any of your permanent teeth get knocked out, don’t panic. Keep the tooth, and seek emergency care as soon as possible, as quick action often allows our emergency dentists to place the tooth back in your jaw.
Severe Toothache
Severe tooth pain or facial swelling is a sign that something is wrong. An infection, cavity, or other oral health problem may be the cause. Rinsing with warm water may help, but call us if the pain persists.
Sudden Tooth Sensitivity
A tooth that suddenly becomes very sensitive to heat or cold may signal an injury or infection.
Loose Fillings or Crowns
Losing a crown or filling leaves your tooth vulnerable to further decay or damage and causes pain from exposed nerves. Our emergency dentists alleviate these issues with temporary or permanent filling and crown replacement.
Abscessed Tooth
Tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma often causes an infection, or abcess, in the root of your tooth. The infection causes acute pain, swelling, and sores in the soft tissues of your mouth. Left untreated, abscesses may cause considerable complications and require immediate attention.
Arlington Emergency Dentist
Emergency Dental Care in Arlington, VA
While you can’t plan for an accident, you can try to avoid other dental emergencies with proper oral hygiene. Schedule regular check-ups every six months, and be sure to brush and floss daily. Avoiding hard or chewy foods is also key to preserving the integrity of your teeth, crowns, and fillings. At Advance Dental Care Center, we understand that dental emergencies happen. Your comfort and health are always our first priority, so if you are experiencing serious mouth pain, call us immediately at (703) 415-0505.