Seven Signs You Need Emergency Dental Care

A dental checkup consists of routine cleaning and examination every six months. However, a dental emergency is anything but planned or routine. Dental emergencies are usually obvious and require immediate action. The longer you leave them untreated, the more serious they become. Learn the signs below or schedule an emergency dentist appointment with MINT dentistry in Dallas or Houston, TX. Our trusted professionals can advise you on how to move forward to protect your oral health.

1. Loose tooth

Adult teeth should never feel wiggly or loose. A loose tooth usually indicates you have an injury caused by dental trauma. Severe decay could also cause the tooth root and surrounding gum tissue to become loose. Even if there is no pain associated with a loose tooth, it is best to call an emergency dentist.

2. Severe tooth pain or toothache

Minor tooth pain can be addressed with a cool compress or over-the-counter medication. Severe tooth pain or toothache may not be alleviated with simple at-home measures. Treatment for severe tooth pain varies depending on the cause, so it is best to get a diagnosis soon.

3. Bleeding and aching gums

Some bleeding after flossing is normal, though it could indicate early signs of gum disease. If bleeding is excessive and recurring, this is a more serious issue. Get a dental examination in Dallas or Houston, TX, especially if the bleeding is accompanied by pain.

4. Swollen jaw

Swelling of the jaw could mean you have an infection. If swelling is accompanied by a fever or problems breathing or swallowing, seek emergency assistance immediately. You may have an infection caused by a blockage in the salivary glands. An emergency dentist appointment is needed to treat the infection and relieve your symptoms.

5. Dental abscess

An abscessed tooth is a painful infection at the root of the tooth. It can be caused by an untreated cavity or severe gum disease. Symptoms of a dental abscess include swollen glands, pus, fever, or a foul taste in your mouth. Just like any other infection, an abscessed tooth requires treatment right away.

6. Numb tooth

When your tooth loses access to blood flow, it goes numb. You may feel a lack of sensation in the area. Tooth decay or dental trauma sometimes causes a numb tooth. A lack of total feeling could also indicate an abscess that has reached the nerves.

7. Your mouth tastes like metal

A metal taste in your mouth can be a sign of an old filling that has cracked or become loose. Because an open filling can lead to new infections and cavities, it is best to get emergency dental care. You may also have a toothache or pain in addition to the metal taste.

Make an emergency dentist appointment

As a patient, it is important to pay close attention to dental symptoms. Any major changes with your teeth or gums could be a sign of a greater issue. If you are experiencing dental trauma or other painful conditions, contact MINT dentistry for an appointment in Dallas or Houston, TX. We can assess any damage and create a comprehensive treatment plan for you.