Four Dangerous Dental Emergency Myths

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Dental emergencies are nothing new; most people have experienced some type of oral accident or trauma at some point that led to broken or cracked teeth. However, even with the advancement of the dental industry and technology, there are a few dental emergency misconceptions that are detrimental to oral health. In this post, we share some of the common emergency dentistry myths and what to do about it. But, first;

What is Emergency Dentistry?

Emergency dentistry is a dental service that involves the diagnosis and treatment of injuries affecting the teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues.

Most of the dental problems are caused by accidents and falls. However, some dental emergencies are triggered by bacteria and infections. Knowing the type of dental emergency, you have is crucial to getting the best form of treatment. Some of the common dental accidents include broken, knocked out, and cracked teeth.

Teeth Infections Clear on Their Own

A tooth infection is a common experience, however, most people tend to ignore it especially when the pain subsides. A dental infection is caused by various factors chief among them is bacteria. These teeth infections don’t just clear on their own without treatment. You will need medication such as antibiotics to get rid of the bacteria.

It is easy to ignore seeking medical treatment when you have a tooth infection because of the availability of pain relievers. Sometimes the throbbing pain disappears without the use of pain medication. However, this is usually not a sign that everything is okay. Rather it is an indication that the infection is advancing and spreading to the nearby tissues.

When the bacteria infection affects the surrounding tissues it destroys the nerves and temporarily eases the pain. Failure to get the proper treatment, the infection could develop to gum disease and eventually loss of teeth.

Accidental Tooth Loss (Including Primary) Is Not an Emergency

Tooth loss whether primary or permanent teeth is a dental emergency. Yes, primary teeth will eventually fall off at some point. However, the premature loss of baby teeth can affect the development of the jaw bone. It is necessary to visit a dental office near you if your child loses their primary teeth. Although a replantation of the primary teeth is not recommended, bring the tooth with you for assessment.

Partially Dislodged Teeth Don’t Need Treatment and Can Be Planted Back

Knocked-out teeth are very delicate and should be handled with care. Yes, it is possible for teeth, either partially or completely knocked out, to be planted back to the socket. However, only the dentist can determine the condition of the teeth and their fate.

If your teeth are partially knocked out, you should visit a dental emergency office near you for assistance. Trying to fix the teeth back to the socket will worsen the situation. Plus, you don’t know what else is damaged that needs urgent dental treatment.

Mild Oral Lacerations Are Nothing to Worry About

Soft tissue injuries are an oral emergency and should be treated at the dental office. Soft tissues in the cheeks, lips, palate, and tongue can get bruised because of accidents and cause bleeding.

Furthermore, they can get infected if not treated properly. Home remedies such as warm salt water can help ease the pain. However, you still need to visit our dentist in Granville, Ohio especially if the bleeding lasts for a couple of hours.

What Are the Signs of a Dental Emergency?

When you notice any of these signs after a dental accident or trauma to the mouth, visit our dental emergency office in Granville, Ohio.

  • A broken tooth
  • Unexplained and severe toothaches
  • Bleeding and painful gums
  • Swollen jaw
  • Tooth numbness

The Bottom Line

Dental emergencies occur at any time and ignoring them because they seem mild will lead to other oral and health complications. Visit Town & Country Dentistry for assessment, whether the injury is mild or severe, painful, or not. Sometimes, certain mouth emergencies don’t have any pain such as damaged dental restorations but are as serious.

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