No matter how well you brush and take care of your smile, you may unexpectedly find yourself in a dental emergency. While you can do your best to avoid them, experiencing one can leave you scrambling on what to do. However, not all scenarios are built the same, so which ones will leave you needing urgent dental care in Williamstown? Here’s a quick guide to help you feel more confident about calling your dentist.
When Is Something an Urgent Dental Emergency?
Starting with the serious incidents, these often require you to be seen the same day. This is to help you avoid further harm, so you should visit your provider if you have:
- Severe discomfort can be a sign of an infected tooth, but it needs to be treated promptly. The bacteria causing trouble can spread to nearby teeth and gums when they’re left untreated, eventually leading to tooth loss.
- A dental abscess is often a result of infections as well, but it can show up as a small bump on your gums. It’s also painful, but you may have swelling and a fever.
- Chips or cracks can happen from hard foods and injury, but they should be fixed as soon as possible. The dental structure’s integrity is compromised, so bacteria may be able to more easily attack the insides.
- Loose or knocked-out teeth may occur from an accident or facial blow, but you need to see your provider within an hour. This will give you the best shot of saving it and having a successful reattachment.
What Isn’t an Urgent Dental Emergency?
With that being said, if you notice that you have minor discomfort, food stuck between your teeth, or a loose restoration (like a crown or veneer), then you may not need to see your dentist right away.
That doesn’t mean you don’t need to call them, as your provider will likely try to get you in later in the same day or within the near future. That way, you can get the treatment you need to avoid serious complications that you may be at a higher risk for.
Do I Need to Call My Dentist?
In short, you absolutely should if you have any worries or concerns at all. By talking to them on the phone, you can explain more about your dental emergency, and they will be able to give you more advice about how to handle the situation. That way, you can also get scheduled and take a step toward the relief you deserve.
About the Author
Dr. Wael Kassem earned his dental degree from Temple University. He has nearly 15 years of experience helping the Williamstown community get the problem-free smiles they deserve with preventive services and other treatments. Dr. Kassem is proud to offer walk-in emergency visits for when you need urgent oral care; that way, you can get the relief you need as soon as possible.
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling his office at (856) 818-9998.