Dental emergencies can strike unexpectedly and demand immediate attention to alleviate pain, prevent further damage, and safeguard overall oral health. While regular dental check-up and good oral hygiene practices can help reduce the likelihood of emergencies, accidents and unforeseen circumstances can still occur. 

Alpine Dental Center in Thornton offers Emergency dentistry services. It is specialized dental care and treatment provided to patients who require immediate attention for oral issues that cannot wait for a regular dental appointment.

Common dental emergencies that require immediate care to ensure timely treatment and relief for patients are given below. 

• Severe Toothache

The pain from gum infection, dental decay or abscess can be excruciating and may radiate to the jaw, head, or neck. Immediate care is necessary to diagnose the root cause and provide pain relief. 

Dentist in Thornton take X-rays, examine the affected area, and administer appropriate treatment, which may include root canal therapy, extraction, or medication to manage pain and infection.

• Dental Trauma

Accidents or injuries to the mouth can lead to dental trauma, such as knocked-out, fractured, or displaced teeth. These situations require immediate attention to increase the chances of successful treatment and tooth preservation. If a tooth is knocked out, it’s crucial to handle it by the crown and avoid touching the root. 

Placing the tooth back in its socket (if possible) or keeping it in milk or a tooth preservation kit can increase the likelihood of successful reattachment. Promptly visiting a dentist is essential for evaluation, cleaning, and splinting if necessary.

• Broken or Lost Dental Restorations

Dental restorations, such as crowns, fillings, and bridges, can become damaged or dislodged due to wear, accidents, or biting on hard objects. Broken or lost restorations expose the underlying tooth structure, making it susceptible to sensitivity and further damage. 

Seeking immediate dental care can prevent complications, restore the dental work, and safeguard the natural tooth from additional harm.

• Gum Infections and Swellings

Gum infections can cause swelling, soreness, bleeding and in severe cases an abscess can form within the gum tissue. Immediate dental care is essential to prevent the infection from worsening and affecting the supporting structures of the teeth. 

• Broken or Fractured Teeth

Chipped, cracked, or fractured teeth require prompt attention, as they can lead to sensitivity, pain, and compromised aesthetics. The severity of the fracture will determine the treatment required, which may range from dental bonding or veneers for minor chips to dental crowns or root canal treatment for more severe cases.

Dental emergencies are distressing situations. Intervention on time can often be the difference between saving or losing a tooth.