Did you know that over two million people pay a visit to the emergency room every year for dental-related problems? Studies show that most of the time, this has to do with extreme tooth pain.
Most of the time, when you have problems with your teeth that need immediate attention, you should visit the dentist rather than the emergency room. Here are some clear signs that you need to find a dentist and get treatment as soon as you can.
1. The Taste of Metal
Although most people have composite fillings nowadays, if your mouth tastes like pennies, you may have knocked a crown or filling loose. This can cause problems if you do not get it fixed right away. When you go to the dentist office, ask for a replacement that will bond better to the tooth.
2. Intense Pain
If you have throbbing tooth pain, then you should do an internet search for “dentist in my area.” For dull pain, you may be able to wait until the next day for an appointment.
However, if you have intense and shooting pain, chances are that it is a bad infection. You need to get it treated immediately.
3. Visible Swelling
If you notice swelling in your mouth or face, then it is a sign that you have a major oral infection. In this case, if your regular dentist does not have an appointment available, you may need to visit an emergency dentist.
The dentist can figure out where the infection is and will likely drain it and prescribe you antibiotics.
4. A Broken Tooth
Accidents happen, and one of the most common facial problems from an accident is a broken tooth. These can range anywhere from a chip in the tooth to cracking it completely.
To fix a broken tooth, you may get a temporary crown placed on the tooth to protect the root. If you still have the piece of the tooth that came off, your dentist may be able to bond it back onto the existing tooth. You can also replace broken teeth with dental veneers.
5. Pus or Bleeding
One of the telltale signs of infection is leakage of pus or blood from the infected area. This indicates that your body is trying to expel the infected tissue from your mouth.
Do an internet search for “dentist near me” to find a dentist that can drain the infection. You may also have to do home treatments such as rinsing with a medicated mouthwash or saltwater.
Visit the Dentist Today
If you have any of these symptoms, then you need to pay a visit to the dentist as soon as possible. You can get the treatment you need and take care of the problem so that it does not get even worse.
Would you like to learn about more ways that you can watch out for your health? Check out our site for more tips and tricks on maintaining your physical and mental well-being.
