What Is the Role of Emergency Dentistry?

What Is the Role of Emergency Dentistry?

Nov 01, 2020

While it is important that we always take precautions to avoid any damage to our teeth, accidents are inevitable. Everyone, no matter how careful they are is at risk of suffering a dental emergency. The important thing is to know the right course of action to take when the accident occurs. Failing to get the necessary care for a dental injury can put you at risk of permanent damage. This is why it is important to always consult a dentist near you in Calgary, SW, anytime you suspect that you could be having a dental emergency. There are a range of issues that are classified as dental emergencies and while they may not always be easy to point out, a visit to the dentist can help rule out or confirm an issue.

Importance of Emergency Dentistry

In the event of an accident, most people tend to rush to the general emergency room. However, for issue that affect your mouth and teeth, it is best to go to a dedicated dental ER. This is because, unlike regular ER’s, dental emergency practices have the special skills and tools needed to handle different kinds of dental issues. Getting a diagnosis is therefore swift and more accurate, which is necessary for faster and smoother recovery. The convenience of having all that is needed to address any urgent dental issue is what really makes it a necessary service in ensuring optimal oral health.

Emergency dentists in Calgary, SW usually work beyond the regular working hours of general dentists. This is important for emergency services as there is no telling when and where an accident can occur. You can therefore still access the much-needed dental care services any time there is the need. There is no need for appointments and the waiting time is often very short to makes sure you get immediate relief from whatever is putting you in distress.

Types of Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies vary in severity but they should all be treated with great seriousness. Some signs that could be indicating the need for immediate treatment include:

  • Severe pain. Especially when it occurs suddenly and doesn’t lessen despite trying some relieve measures. Pain is always an indication of an underlying problem.
  • Knocked-out tooth. seeking treatment within the first hour of losing a tooth increases chances of saving it. Make sure to carry the tooth with you so that the dentist can try to re-insert it.
  • Having loose teeth, even if it is without pain.
  • Swellings on any of the soft tissues. Swellings especially on the gums could be a sign of an abscess which if not treated could spread to other parts of the body and become fatal.
  • Bleeding that does not seem to stop, especially when there is no obvious sign of injury in the mouth.
  • Lost or damage dental appliances. These include fillings, crowns, braces and dentures
  • Broken teeth and injuries to the mouth also need to be checked out to rule out any underlying complication.

How to Respond to A Dental Emergency

If you have a dental emergency, the first thing you can do is reach out to your dentist. If it is within regular working hours, some dentist may be able to see you despite the short notice. Alternatively, always have the contact of an emergency dentist standby. This ensures that you still have access to dental care beyond business hours. In some cases, a simple phone call can solve the problem where the dentist explains what you need to do to handle the issue. You may still need to visit the dentist at a convenient time for a proper check-up. However, if it is something that cannot be controlled at home, you will be needed to quickly make the trip to a dental clinic and have it professionally handled. It is best not to try and fix anything on your own, especially if you lack the necessary first aid skills.

There are also some steps that you can take to avoid a trip to an emergency dental clinic in Calgary. Be consistent in your oral care routine and always consult your dentist on any issue that can affect your oral health. If you engage in sports or high impact activities, consider safety gears such as mouthguards and helmets to protect your teeth in the event of an accident.

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