Dental emergencies can happen anytime, often when you least expect them. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a broken tooth, or an injury to your gums, knowing what to do and where to go can make a big difference. Here’s a look at some of the most common dental emergencies and how your Fremantle emergency dentist can help.
Toothaches that won’t go away
A persistent toothache can be more than just an annoyance. It can be a sign of an infection, decay, or even an abscess. If the pain is severe, doesn’t improve with over-the-counter pain relief, or is accompanied by swelling, you should seek emergency dental care.
How dentists handle it:
- A thorough examination to identify the cause of the pain.
- X-rays if necessary to detect underlying issues.
- Treatment options such as fillings, root canal therapy, or antibiotics for infections.
Knocked-out teeth
Losing a tooth due to an accident or impact can be alarming, but acting quickly can significantly increase the chances of successful re-implantation by a Fremantle emergency dentist. If a tooth is knocked out, keep it moist by placing it in milk or saliva and get to a dentist in Fremantle as soon as possible.
How dentists handle it:
- Attempting to re-implant the tooth if seen within an hour.
- Using a splint to hold the tooth in place while it heals.
- Discussing long-term solutions such as dental implants if the tooth cannot be saved.
Broken, chipped, or fractured teeth
A broken or chipped tooth isn’t just a cosmetic issue, it can expose sensitive inner layers of the tooth and lead to pain or infection. Small chips may not require immediate attention, but large fractures do.
How dentists handle it:
- Smoothing out minor chips to prevent irritation.
- Dental bonding or veneers for aesthetic and structural restoration.
- Crowns or root canals for more severe fractures.
Bleeding gums or soft tissue injuries
Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease, but if bleeding is sudden or excessive due to an injury, it requires prompt care. Soft tissue injuries, such as cuts to the lips, tongue, or inside of the mouth, should also be evaluated.
How dentists handle it:
- Cleaning and assessing the wound.
- Stitches if necessary for severe cuts.
- Guidance on how to manage gum disease if ongoing bleeding is due to periodontal issues.
Loose or lost fillings and crowns
A lost filling or crown can leave your tooth exposed and vulnerable to further damage or infection. If this happens, avoid chewing on the affected side and contact your Fremantle dentist promptly.
How dentists handle it:
- Replacing or repairing the filling or crown.
- Assessing if further treatment, such as a root canal, is necessary.
- Providing temporary solutions if a permanent restoration cannot be placed immediately.
Abscesses and swelling
A dental abscess is a severe infection that forms a pocket of pus and can lead to extreme pain, swelling, and even fever, requiring urgent attention from a Fremantle emergency dentist. This type of infection should never be ignored as it can spread to other areas of the body.
How dentists handle it:
- Draining the abscess to relieve pressure.
- Prescribing antibiotics to fight the infection.
- Root canal treatment or tooth extraction if necessary.
When to seek emergency dental care
If you’re experiencing severe pain, swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or have suffered trauma to your teeth or mouth, it’s essential to seek emergency dental care immediately to prevent complications. Emergency dental care is available to help alleviate pain and prevent further complications.
Why choose Fremantle Dental Care for emergencies?
At Fremantle Dental Care, we understand that dental emergencies can be stressful and painful. That’s why our experienced team is committed to providing prompt, compassionate care when you need it most. We offer same-day emergency dental care in Fremantle to ensure you receive expert treatment quickly, minimising pain and preventing further oral health issues.
If you’re facing a dental emergency, contact us today to book an urgent appointment. We’re here to help restore your smile and get you back to feeling your best.
