Toothaches and other acute dental problems can be painful and disorienting. That doesn’t necessarily mean that they should be considered emergencies. Finding a dentist to perform emergency procedures can be difficult and expensive, so it’s best to know in advance whether it makes more sense to call an Emergency Dentist in St Peter MN or to schedule an appointment. Read on to find out when it’s appropriate to call an emergency dentist.
Extreme Pain
Generally speaking pretty much any a toothache is painful. If the pain goes from mild sensitivity to serious pain that causes difficulty eating or speaking, though, it should be considered cause for immediate concern.
Flu-Like Symptoms
If the dental pain is accompanied by an elevated temperature or any other flu-like symptoms the patient should be seen as soon as feasibly possible. This may indicate a serious problem, such as an infection or abscess. Whether or not it is accompanied by a fever, any visible abscess should be drained by a professional. If not properly removed, abscesses can lead to spreading infections and, eventually, the need for more serious surgery.
Missing or Broken Teeth
If an accident has occurred, that has caused a tooth to become severely loosened, cracked, chipped, or even fall out entirely it is definitely time to head to an Emergency Dentist in St Peter MN for immediate treatment. In many cases seeking immediate treatment allows patients to keep their natural teeth where otherwise they would have to be removed.
Inflammation Around Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth can cause a good deal of trouble if they are not removed when patients are young. Should they show signs of severe inflammation, they may require immediate care.
What are the Alternatives?
The majority of dental emergencies could have been prevented through scheduling and attend regular exams. When cavities and gum disease are caught early, they can be treated simply and painlessly, but if they are allowed to progress unchecked they can eventually cause dramatic pain, infections, and other serious problems. Taking care of teeth is more than a matter of brushing twice daily. Regular cleanings and professional evaluations are essential, even for patients who are not yet showing any signs of dental troubles. Click here to learn more about one local dentist’s office that can help.
