Dental emergencies require immediate attention from a dental professional to address pain, discomfort, or damage to the teeth, gums, or mouth. These emergencies can be caused by various factors, including accidents, trauma, infection, or underlying dental conditions.
Furthermore, a report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) found that dental problems were one of Australia’s leading reasons for hospital admissions. In 2020-21, there were 82,916 hospital admissions for dental conditions, with the majority of these admissions being for dental abscesses and tooth decay.
Common causes of dental pain
Various factors, including tooth decay, gum disease, dental abscesses, broken or chipped teeth, and knocked-out teeth, can cause dental pain. These conditions can lead to dental emergencies if left untreated, as they can cause severe pain and discomfort and, in some cases, result in permanent damage to the teeth or gums.
- Tooth decay is one of the most common causes of dental pain. It occurs when the bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode the tooth enamel and lead to cavities. If left untreated, tooth decay can progress and cause infections that may require a root canal or tooth extraction.
- Dental abscesses are painful infections that occur when bacteria enter the pulp or root of the tooth. They can cause severe pain, swelling, and fever, leading to tooth loss if left untreated. Dental abscesses require immediate attention from a dental professional.
- Gum or periodontal disease is another common cause of dental pain. It occurs when the bacteria in plaque buildup on the teeth and gums, causing inflammation and infection. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems if left untreated.
- Broken or chipped teeth can also cause dental pain, significantly if the breakage exposes the sensitive inner layers of the tooth. Knocked-out teeth can be particularly painful and require urgent attention to increase the chances of saving the tooth.
Early intervention is essential in treating dental pain caused by these conditions. Timely treatment can help prevent the condition from worsening and causing further damage or infection. It is crucial to seek professional dental care as soon as possible if you experience dental pain or discomfort.
What to do during a dental emergency
If you experience a dental emergency, the following steps can help manage the pain and discomfort while waiting for treatment:
- Call your dentist: The first step in managing a dental emergency is to call your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist can provide phone advice and arrange an emergency appointment if necessary.
- Seek urgent care: If your dentist is unavailable, seek urgent care from a dental professional or an emergency department. Dental emergencies, such as severe toothaches, dental abscesses, or knocked-out teeth, require immediate attention to prevent further damage or infection.
- Manage the pain: To manage the pain and discomfort during a dental emergency, you can take over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. You can also apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
- Protect the affected tooth: If a tooth is knocked out or broken, it is essential to protect the affected area until you can receive professional treatment. You can place the tooth in a container of milk or saliva to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.
Tips for preventing dental emergencies
While dental emergencies can occur unexpectedly, there are several tips you can follow to maintain good oral health and prevent potential emergencies. These include:
- Regular brushing and flossing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss once daily to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
- Avoid sugary and acidic foods: Sugary and acidic foods and drinks can erode the tooth enamel and lead to cavities and tooth decay. Limit your intake of these foods and opt for water or milk instead.
- Wear a mouthguard: If you participate in sports or other physical activities, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from trauma and injury.
- Visit the dentist regularly: Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to detect and treat potential dental issues before they become emergencies.
In addition to these preventative measures, it is also essential to recognise the warning signs of a potential dental emergency, such as:
- Severe toothache or pain
- Swelling or abscesses in the gums or mouth
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Loose or knocked-out teeth
- Bleeding from the gums or mouth
If you experience these symptoms, seek professional dental care immediately to prevent further damage or infection.
Manage dental pain and seek urgent care
Dental emergencies can be painful and disruptive to daily life, but they can often be avoided with the proper knowledge and preventative measures. However, if you experience dental pain or discomfort, it is crucial to seek emergency dental care as soon as possible.
Prompt treatment can help alleviate pain and prevent further damage or infection. Remember to call your dentist or seek urgent care if you experience a dental emergency, and don’t hesitate to take steps to manage the pain and discomfort while waiting for treatment.
Following these tips and taking proactive steps to maintain good oral health can help prevent dental emergencies and maintain a healthy, pain-free smile.
