A dental problem is the last thing you want to worry about when you’re following stay-at-home orders. But if you develop a problem, it’s important to know the difference between a minor dental issue and a true dental emergency. Some things can wait – others can’t. You might need emergency dental care and an in-person visit with your Arlington dentist, or your matter may not be pressing.
If You Suffer a Blow to the Mouth
A blow to the mouth can cause serious dental damage, including knocked-out, dislodged, loose, or broken teeth, but sometimes the result is minor and insignificant. The first thing to know is that any mouth injury can produce a lot of blood, but that doesn’t always signal a major problem.
If a tooth is moving in any way, call your dentist to deliver the details and schedule an emergency visit. If you don’t have significant tooth pain and everything seems to be intact, try to wait for the blood to clear before freaking out.
If You Have a Toothache
Sometimes you simply need to see your dentist ASAP, and a toothache is one of those cases. A debilitating toothache, sudden discomfort, or chronic pain all signal that something is not right within your tooth and needs to be addressed right away. If you don’t deal with the problem immediately, you risk major restorative dentistry, like a root canal or, in some cases, tooth extraction. If you don’t want to spend more time than necessary at the dentist, call for a dental emergency appointment sooner than later.
If All Your Teeth Hurt
We are living in a very stressful time. It’s not unusual for people to begin grinding and clenching their teeth all day and all night. Over time, this unconscious habit can lead to gum recession, worn enamel, and cracked teeth, which leaves you susceptible to developing infections and decay. Grinding your teeth, in short, is a big problem.
When the world gets back to normal, your stress may taper off, and your teeth grinding. In the meantime, if you are experiencing mouth and jaw pain or painful headaches, contact your Arlington dentist to discuss your symptoms. In some cases, over-the-counter remedies can help in a pinch. In other cases, you’ll need an in-person appointment.
Prevent Dental Emergencies
One of the best things you can do for yourself during quarantine is take good care of your teeth and gums. At the very least, you will keep your mouth healthy and clean, minimizing the chances of developing tooth decay, cavities, infections, or gum disease.
If you’re worried about flossing or putting your hands in your mouth, don’t be. Wash your hands thoroughly before tending to your teeth. You can even wear gloves if it makes you feel better.
Don’t Dismiss Dental Problems
The last thing you want to do is go to the dentist right now and have someone put their hands into your mouth. We understand completely. But you only get one set of permanent teeth, and you don’t want to risk your oral health, nor should you have to suffer with pain because you think you can tough it out until life is back to normal.
If you have a dental emergency, it will not get better on its own. Allow your Arlington dentist to decide the best course of action. Dr. Alana Macalik takes every case seriously and will diagnose your situation efficiently and determine if you need to be seen. Contact her today if you have a dental emergency.
