Many people find it difficult to determine when their dental concern is significant enough to warrant an emergency visit to the dentist. In most cases, it’s best to address a dental emergency as soon as possible to prevent the issue from escalating. Schedule an emergency appointment with your dentist if you notice any of the following symptoms.

When Should You Seek Emergency Dental Care?

1. When You Have a Severe Toothache.

An abnormally painful toothache can be an indicator that you need to schedule an emergency dental consultation. You don’t want to ignore when the pain of the tooth has gotten worse or if the tooth is more sensitive to certain temperatures or textures. While tooth pain can be common, you should never self-diagnose or try to treat the tooth at home. These types of tooth pain can be caused by a number of factors, and you should consult with your dentist so they can determine the cause and best course of treatment.

2. If You Have a Numb Tooth.

You should also be concerned if you notice any teeth that are numb. A numb tooth can be a sign of infection or an abscess that has spread to the tooth’s root or nerves. Failure to treat these issues can lead to tooth decay and the need to have teeth removed. If numbness occurs, schedule a dental visit as soon as possible to get it diagnosed and treated.

3. If You Sustain Severe Damage to a Tooth.

Large breaks of chips in a tooth are noticeable and can be the result of an accident or underlying tooth decay. Regardless of the cause, a compromised tooth needs to be addressed quickly. Untreated chips and breaks can lead to issues that require surgery or cosmetic dentistry. An emergency dental visit can fix the damage, create a treatment plan, and restore your smile.

4. When You Notice Bleeding and Aching Gums.

Bleeding or aching gums, whether it’s after you brush your teeth or whike you’re eating, can be an early sign of the gum disease gingivitis. If plaque is not being properly cleaned from your mouth, it can cause your gums to bleed or swell. Gingivitis is common, but if it is left untreated it can turn into a serious issue. If your gums bleed and swell, plan an emergency dental visit to determine if gingivitis is the cause and get advice on how to improve oral hygiene.

When you need emergency dental care, contact the professionals at Genovese Dental in Cottleville, MO. This practice provides a wide range of oral care services, including preventative care, teeth whitening, dental contouring and bonding, and cosmetic procedures. Most major insurance plans are accepted and practice also offers convenient monthly payment plans. To learn more about their services, visit them online or call (636) 928-4090 to schedule an appointment.