Emergency Dentistry

Emergency dentistry involves providing immediate dental care for urgent oral health issues requiring prompt attention to alleviate pain, prevent further damage, or address sudden trauma. Common emergencies include severe toothaches, knocked-out teeth, broken or cracked teeth, and infections. Dental professionals in emergency settings assess and stabilize patients, perform necessary treatments such as root canals, fillings, or extractions, and provide guidance on post-treatment care. Access to emergency dentistry ensures timely intervention, minimizes complications, and restores dental health swiftly in critical situations. 

Types of Dental Emergencies 

Severe Toothaches

Toothaches can arise suddenly and with intense pain, often signaling an underlying problem that needs immediate attention. Common causes of severe toothaches include advanced tooth decay, which creates cavities that reach the tooth’s nerve, resulting in pain. Infections or abscesses, where pus forms due to bacterial infection, can also cause significant pain and swelling. Other causes might include fractured teeth, which can expose sensitive inner layers, and impacted wisdom teeth, which can press against other teeth or become infected. 

Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency often caused by trauma or injury. This could result from accidents, falls, sports injuries, or any direct impact on the face. Immediate action is crucial to preserve the tooth; handling it carefully and seeking prompt dental care increases the likelihood of successful re-implantation. The delicate root structure and the tissues around the tooth must be protected, and re-implanting within the first hour offers the best chance of saving the tooth. 

Lost or Broken Fillings and Crowns

Fillings and crowns are designed to protect and restore damaged teeth but can sometimes dislodge or break. This can happen due to wear and tear, chewing on hard or sticky foods, or trauma. When a filling or crown is lost or damaged, the underlying tooth structure is exposed, making it susceptible to bacteria and further decay. If not promptly addressed by our dentist, this can lead to sensitivity, pain, and the potential for more severe dental issues. 

Dental Abscess

A dental abscess is a severe condition where a pocket of pus forms in the tooth or gums due to bacterial infection. Causes of abscesses include untreated cavities, periodontal disease, or trauma that leads to infection. Symptoms often include severe pain, swelling, fever, and a bad taste in the mouth. The infection can spread to other body parts if not treated quickly, making it a critical dental emergency in Stockbridge, GA. Treatment usually involves draining the abscess, treating the infection with antibiotics, and addressing the underlying cause, including a root canal or extraction. 

Soft Tissue Injuries

Injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth, including the lips, gums, cheeks, and tongue, can result from accidental bites, falls, sports injuries, or other trauma. These injuries can lead to bleeding, pain, and swelling and may also carry a risk of infection. Immediate steps include cleaning the area with water, applying pressure to control bleeding and seeking dental or medical care to evaluate the extent of the injury and prevent complications. Sutures or other treatments may be necessary to facilitate healing and to avoid infection. 

Types of Emergency Dental Treatments 

Tooth Extraction

In cases where a tooth is severely damaged, decayed, or infected and cannot be saved, tooth extraction may be necessary. The dentist in Stockbridge, GA, will numb the area with a local anesthetic to ensure comfort during the procedure. Using specialized tools, the tooth is carefully removed from its socket. Post-extraction care includes instructions for managing pain, swelling, and proper oral hygiene to promote healing. 

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is performed to save a tooth with infected or damaged pulp. The dentist removes the infected or inflamed pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and then fills and seals it. This procedure alleviates pain and prevents the spread of infection. A crown is often placed on the treated tooth to restore its function and appearance. 

Dental Fillings and Crowns

When a tooth is fractured, decayed, or has a lost filling, dental fillings or crowns are used to restore its structure and function. Fillings involve removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling it with a composite material. On the other hand, crowns cover the entire tooth and are used when a large portion of the tooth is damaged. These treatments protect the tooth from further damage and restore its strength. Contact us today to learn more.

Management of Dental Abscesses

A dental abscess is a severe infection that requires prompt treatment to prevent complications. The dentist will drain the abscess to remove the pus and reduce pressure and pain. Antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate the infection. The underlying cause of the abscess, such as a decayed tooth or gum disease, will also be treated, which may involve root canal therapy or extraction. 

Treatment for Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries, such as gums, lips, cheeks, or tongue lacerations, require careful evaluation and treatment to prevent infection and promote healing. The dentist will clean the wound, control bleeding, and may use sutures if necessary. Pain management and instructions for maintaining oral hygiene are provided to support recovery. 

Preventive Measures 

• Brushing and flossing regularly helps prevent decay and gum disease. 

• Routine visits allow the dentist to identify and address potential issues early. 

• Wearing mouthguards during sports or recreational activities can prevent injuries. 

• Being cautious with hard or sticky foods can reduce the risk of broken or cracked teeth. 

Emergency dental treatment provides rapid intervention to address urgent dental issues effectively. Visit Arch Dent Dental Clinic at 101 Center St., Stockbridge, GA 30281, or call (770) 320-8792 for immediate assistance and take the first step towards relief and recovery!