Emergency Dentistry: What You Need to Know

We can’t always predict when a dental emergency will occur, whether a chipped tooth from a fall or an abscess causing unbearable pain. Regardless of the situation, emergencies are never something anyone wishes to deal with. Fortunately, at Acorn Dental in Marlton, New Jersey, we provide emergency dentistry care for our patients needing care immediately. Don’t hesitate to call us today if you are experiencing a dental emergency. Dr. Woodfork and their team are here to help and provide the necessary care you need to relieve you of your pain. 

In this blog post, we will go over what emergency dentistry is, what to expect, and provide tips to help prevent a dental emergency. 

What is Emergency Dentistry?

Emergency dentistry involves the immediate care and treatment of dental conditions that require urgent attention. These dental issues can be anything from severe toothaches, broken or knocked-out teeth, bleeding gums, and jaw injuries, to name a few examples.

Why is Emergency Dentistry Important?

Dental emergencies can be painful and distressing, and if left untreated, they can lead to severe consequences such as infection or permanent damage to teeth and gums. That’s why it’s essential to seek emergency dental care when needed. Prompt treatment can prevent further complications, shorten the recovery time, and save your smile.

Signs That You Need Emergency Dental Care

• Severe toothache: A severe toothache can indicate a serious dental problem, such as an infection or a cracked tooth. If your pain is persistent or severe, seek emergency dental care.
• Knocked-out tooth: If one of your teeth gets knocked out due to injury, it’s essential to seek emergency dental care immediately. Quick action can increase the chances of saving the tooth.
• Broken or cracked tooth: A broken or cracked tooth can be painful and require immediate dental attention to prevent further damage.
• Swelling in the mouth or face: Swelling can be a sign of an infection or other dental issue. If you experience swelling in your mouth or face, seek emergency dental care immediately.

What to Expect From Urgent Dental Care

Examination

Dr. Woodfork will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of your dental emergency. They may take X-rays or other diagnostic tests to help diagnose your problem.

Treatment

Dr. Woodfork will provide immediate treatment to relieve pain and prevent further damage. Treatments may include: 

1. Root Canal Therapy: This is required when the tooth’s pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or damaged. D. Woodfork removes the pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent future infections.
2. Tooth Extractions: In severe cases, where a tooth is extensively damaged and cannot be saved, it may need to be removed to alleviate pain and prevent the spread of infection.
3. Dental Fillings: Used to treat cavities or minor tooth decay. The decayed tooth material is removed and filled with composite resin or amalgam. 

Follow-up care

Dr. Woodfork will provide instructions for follow-up care to help you recover from your dental emergency. They may also schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure your treatment succeeded.

How to Prepare for a Dental Emergency

• Keep a dental emergency kit: Stock a small kit with basic dental supplies, such as gauze, pain relievers, and an emergency dental contact list. Keep this kit in a convenient location so you can access it quickly in an emergency.
• Know your dental insurance policy: Familiarize yourself with your dental insurance policy and what it covers in case of a dental emergency. Through knowing your insurance policy it can help you avoid unexpected costs.
• Stay calm: This may be easier said than done, but staying calm can help you make clear decisions and take appropriate actions during a dental emergency.

How Dental Emergency Care Can Benefit You

Although dental emergencies are not something you want to worry about, they do occur, and fortunately, receiving emergency dental care at Acorn Dental can benefit you in your time of need. 

Immediate Relief

Dental emergencies can cause unbearable pain, making it difficult for patients to continue their daily activities. Patients can get the relief they need immediately by contacting our emergency dentist. Emergency dentists can access the necessary tools and expertise to relieve pain. They can diagnose the problem, provide suitable treatment, and mitigate the risk of further damage or complications.

Prevents Further Damage

Delaying or postponing dental emergencies can lead to further complications, sometimes irreversible. With emergency dental care, you can prevent or minimize the damage a dental emergency could cause. Prompt action to address a dental problem can help avoid further harm and save your tooth/teeth and possible more invasive procedures and costs that you might have incurred if you have prolonged it.

Convenience

Emergency dentistry is incredibly convenient and effective for patients who have busy lifestyles. Rather than taking time off work or school to visit a regular dentist, patients can call an emergency dentist to schedule an appointment when they can. Additionally, most emergency dentists are centrally located, prepared for emergencies, and provide immediate assistance.

Peace of Mind

Finally, having emergency dentistry on speed dial provides peace of mind for patients. Knowing they can have immediate help if an emergency arises demonstrates dentists’ commitment to their patients’ well-being. Dental emergencies can be scary and unpredictable, but having a dentist on speed dial makes patients feel more relaxed and secure, knowing they’ve got great emergency dental care right at their fingertips.

Tips to Avoid Dental Emergencies

1. Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule regular dental checkups every six months. Your dentist can spot potential issues early and take preventative measures.
2. Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, and don’t forget to floss daily. Good oral hygiene helps prevent tooth cavities and gum disease.
3. Healthy Diet: Limit your sugary and acidic foods intake, as these can erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities. Ensure your diet is rich in vitamins, minerals, and calcium.
4. Use Mouthguards: If you play contact sports or engage in activities that could injure your mouth, always wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth.
5. Don’t Use Teeth as Tools: Avoid using your teeth to open bottles, tear packaging, or anything else besides chewing food. Using your teeth to open things can lead to chipped or broken teeth.
6. Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Chewing on ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candy can cause your teeth to crack or chip.
7. Handle Toothaches Quickly: If you start to experience a toothache, don’t ignore it. It’s often a sign of a deeper problem that needs immediate attention.
8. Stay Hydrated: Drinking lots of water benefits your overall health and helps maintain oral health by washing away food particles and bacteria.
9. Quit Smoking: Smoking discolors your teeth and can lead to gum disease and oral cancer.

Dental Emergency Care in Marlton, NJ

Dental emergencies don’t have to be a nightmare if you’re prepared. Knowing what emergency dentistry is about, how essential it is, and what to expect if you ever need it are critical steps to ensure you get the right treatment when you need it. At Acorn Dental, we are here to provide the necessary care to relieve your pain and save your smile from further damage. 

Remember, taking care of your teeth is always a priority, and if you experience any dental emergency, call us today at our office in Marlton, New Jersey!