When it comes to visiting the dentist, some situations require more than just two yearly checkups. Emergency dental scenarios, such as cracking or dislodging a tooth, require immediate attention. Waiting to seek help could lead to long-lasting issues and complications. To better understand why swift action is vital, consult the guide below. 

What Is Considered a Dental Emergency? 

Essentially, a dental emergency is anything that compromises your oral health or safety. Common examples of this include chipped or cracked teeth, loose or lost caps, significant damage to the tongue, lips, or gums, or teeth that have come loose or fallen out completely. Other emergencies include an abscess in the gumline, tender or bleeding gums, and discomfort while eating. Removable dental work, such as braces and dentures, can also require immediate dental care if they’re broken or they cause an uncomfortable bite.

Why Shouldn’t You Wait to See a Dentist?

While many people might feel a bit hesitant to contact their dentist outside regular business hours, if you’re facing one of the injuries mentioned above, it’s crucial you do. Failing to seek swift action could put you at risk for an infection, which could lead to serious illness. For example, if you cracked a tooth, that damage would put your tooth root and nerves at risk of exposure to harmful bacteria. The same concept applies if you lose the cap off a crown, as the gums would be left raw and vulnerable. Additionally, the sooner you seek treatment, the more likely the dentist will be able to save the existing tooth, rather than having to extract it and install a replacement. 

If you experience a dental emergency, turn to the professionals at Preventive Dental Services. Serving residents in Homer and Barrow, AK, these dentists offer an extensive range of oral care services to ensure optimum health for all their patients. Whether you need to replace a crown or require an emergency extraction, they have the skills and expertise needed to handle the task. Visit their website for more information on their services, and call (907) 235-1286 to schedule an appointment.