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A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate dental care. If left untreated, a dental emergency can result in infection, tooth loss, or permanent damage to your smile.

The key to preventing a dental emergency is to see your dentist regularly for routine cleanings and exams. By visiting your dentist every six months, they can diagnose any dental issues at their earliest stages, when treatment is typically simpler and more affordable.

When Should You See an Emergency Dentist?

Typically, you should call your dentist for any of the following dental emergencies:

Toothaches

Toothaches can be caused by a number of issues, including cavities, infections, and trauma. While the pain itself can be inconvenient, it’s actually the infections that could spread to the gums and jaw that are the most concerning. If an infection spreads, it could lead to tooth loss, the need for extractions, and other serious complications.

Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth

A broken or chipped tooth can happen at any time. If a tooth is chipped, the pieces can be smoothed down and polished. A broken tooth should be bonded with a tooth-colored dental resin. A cracked tooth should also be bonded with a composite resin. If the tooth cracks below the gumline, a porcelain crown may be the best way to restore it.

Knocked-out Teeth

If you get your tooth knocked, call us right away. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do.

If the tooth is dirty, rinse it with water. Don’t scrub it since that can damage the tissue. Once the tooth is clean, try to place it back in its socket gently. If you can’t do this, place it in a container of milk and bring it with you to your appointment.

Painful, Bleeding Gums

If your gums are bleeding and/or painful, you may be suffering from a dental emergency. Call your dentist immediately.

Painful, Loose Teeth

A loose tooth is a relatively common problem, especially among older patients. A loose tooth may occur when a tooth becomes weakened due to decay or injury. If a tooth becomes loose, it can be easily wiggled back and forth. This can result in pieces of food becoming trapped in the area where the tooth meets the gum. This can lead to infection, discomfort, and other problems.

Objects Caught in Teeth

Shoelaces, pens, and pencils are the most common objects wedged between teeth. If you can’t remove the object with dental floss, contact our office. Don’t try to pull the object out yourself, as this can cause damage to your teeth and gums. Instead, call your dentist right away.

Atlantic Dental, located in Denver, CO, is equipped with the latest amenities and modern technologies that enable the best dental care facilities for patients. Call us at (720) 738-8888 and schedule an appointment with the dentist.