Dental emergencies are wide and varied - they could involve the teeth, the gums, even the soft tissue in and around the mouth. Whatever the case, these types of emergencies always require professional dental help, and as soon as possible. Dental distress does not always involve pain, although pain is a sure signal that something is wrong. And depending on the source of the pain, an experienced clinician can assess and identify the probable cause.
Dental emergencies take on many faces. It could be an infection of some type; it could be a chipped or broken tooth; it could be an old filling that’s fallen out; it could even be a sports injury that has damaged the teeth, gums, and mouth. Regardless of cause, dental emergencies must be treated under the supervision of a professional – it will ensure proper treatment, specific to the problem, with every effort to repair damage and preserve the teeth.
Conventional toothaches
With a conventional toothache, an immediate appointment is recommended – pain is a symptom that demands attention. Short term, the pain can be eased with over-the-counter medication.
Broken or chipped tooth
Broken (or chipped) teeth can usually be saved. Here again, an immediate appointment is well advised. The dentist will recommend if a white filling, bonding, or a crown will be required.
A knocked-out tooth
With a knocked-out tooth, it may be possible for the dentist to put it back. This must be done very quickly – a tooth that’s replaced within 10-15 minutes has a good chance of taking root again.
In general, a dental emergency will require the attention of a dental professional. For unforeseen accidents and/or emergencies, immediate care is essential - something that the Mackenzie Dental Centre can provide as a first step in emergency care.
At the Mackenzie Dental Centre, our dentists serve the Vaughan, Maple, and Woodbridge communities. Contact us online to book an appointment now!
