When Is a Painful Broken Tooth an Emergency?

Suffering a broken tooth is a scary experience. However, the situation is less scary when you know what to do after a broken tooth occurs. Not every instance requires emergency dental treatment, but it is important to know when to visit a dentist for prompt dental treatment after a broken tooth. 

When to seek emergency treatment for a broken tooth

Any time that a broken tooth is serious, emergency dental treatment is necessary. This is because the tooth is in jeopardy of becoming lost or causing an infection if not properly cared for in a timely manner. Four signs that indicate that a broken tooth requires emergency treatment are intolerable pain, severe bleeding of the gums, gum swelling and damage of the tooth root.

Intolerable pain

Breaking a tooth can be painful. Of course, mild to moderate pain is to be expected, but pain that becomes severe or lasts for an extended period of time is a sign that the issue requires emergency treatment. For less severe breaks, the person can typically manage the pain with over-the-counter pain relief medication and a cold compress. However, pain that does not improve over the course of several hours or becomes intolerable indicates a trip to the dentist for emergency treatment. 

Severe bleeding

A broken tooth typically damages both the gums and the tooth. Significant gum damage can cause severe bleeding in the mouth. If the bleeding appears excessive and is uncontrollable, then a visit to the dentist for prompt treatment is likely necessary. Minor bleeding can often be managed by placing gauze on the affected area until the bleeding stops. If minor to moderate bleeding continues for more than 30 minutes, then it is a sign of a more serious matter that may require emergency dental treatment. 

Severe gum swelling

In addition to the bleeding, the gums may also swell. Minor swelling is not always a concern and should improve with anti-inflammatory medication and by avoiding irritating the affected area. If the swelling does not go down over time or worsens, then it is a sign that the broken tooth is an emergency. Gum swelling could be a sign that a tooth infection has developed or has an increased chance of developing. A dentist can take action to decrease the swelling promptly.

Damage towards the root

Any time that damage caused by a broken tooth extends toward the root of the tooth, a trip for emergency dental services is encouraged. This is because damage to the tooth root can cause the dental pulp to become infected, which requires root canal therapy. In many instances, damage to the tooth root from a broken tooth that is left untreated leads to tooth loss. 

Call us today for prompt broken tooth treatment

If you or someone you know has suffered a broken tooth and needs prompt dental treatment, then get in touch with our team today. We can make a professional treatment recommendation and restore a broken tooth as much as possible.

Request an appointment here: https://www.belairdentalassociates.com or call Belair Dental Associates at (706) 426-5520 for an appointment in our Evans office.

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