Most dental appointments are scheduled in advance. Cleanings, simple fillings, and whitening treatments are routine procedures that can be scheduled at the patient’s convenience. However, there are times that treatment needs to be sought out immediately in order to save the tooth or prevent infection. There are many signs to be on the lookout for that will determine if you need Emergency Dentistry Charleston SC.
Sudden Toothache
Anyone who has ever experienced a toothache knows the pain can be crippling. However, not all toothaches are created equal. Most toothaches are the result of deep decay that can be treated with a simple filling. However, severe toothaches should be treated as a dental emergency. If the toothache wakes you from a deep sleep in the middle of the night, you may have a dangerous tooth infection. A tooth that is sensitive to both hot and cold substances needs to be examined right away. In both scenarios, the tooth has probably developed a bacterial infection that needs to be treated before it spreads to other parts of the body.
Broken or Lost Teeth
In the event you break or lose a tooth as the result of an injury or accident, it is best to seek out Emergency Dentistry in Charleston SC. Depending on the severity of the break, the nerve of the tooth may become compromised. When this happens, you are at high risk of losing the tooth. Your dentist will quickly work to repair the damage. A filling or dental crown may be used to reinforce the tooth. If the tooth has already been knocked out of your mouth, you need to head to the dentist right away. Keep the tooth wet, in either milk or water. If possible, push it back into the socket. The dentist may be able to save the tooth, but time is of the essence.
Dental emergencies need to be treated right away. Many teeth can be saved after trauma by a dentist. If left untreated, you are at a high risk of losing the tooth or developing a dangerous infection. Be sure to check out Drtatumsmiles.com if you need to find a local emergency dentist.