What Dental Problems Should Not be Considered Dental Emergencies?
Posted on 3/15/2025 by Ranches Family Dental |
 A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate attention to prevent further damage or pain. While some dental issues may seem alarming, they may not require an emergency visit to the dentist. Knowing the difference between a true dental emergency and a non-emergency can help you save time, money, and stress.
Here are some common dental problems that should not be considered dental emergencies:
Sensitivity to Hot or Cold: If your teeth become sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, it's usually a sign of tooth decay or gum recession. While uncomfortable, it's not considered a dental emergency. However, it's important to schedule an appointment with your dentist to determine the cause of the sensitivity and receive treatment.
Minor Toothaches: A minor toothache is usually a dull ache that comes and goes. It may be caused by an inflamed pulp, a cracked tooth, or a loose filling. While annoying, minor toothaches usually don't require an emergency visit. However, if the pain becomes severe, constant, or is accompanied by swelling, it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible.
Lost Filling: A lost filling can be bothersome, but it's not a dental emergency. You can usually wait a few days to see your dentist for a replacement filling. In the meantime, try to avoid chewing on the affected tooth and cover the hole with sugar-free gum or dental wax to protect it from sensitivity.
Loose Crown: A loose crown can be uncomfortable, but it's not usually a dental emergency. You can try to temporarily re-cement the crown using over-the-counter dental cement. However, it's important to see your dentist as soon as possible to have the crown properly re-cemented or replaced.
Minor Chipped Tooth: A minor chip in your tooth that doesn't involve the pulp or cause pain is not a dental emergency. You can wait to see your dentist at your next scheduled appointment. However, if the chip is large, involves the pulp, or causes pain, you should see a dentist as soon as possible.
Food Stuck Between Teeth: Food stuck between your teeth can be annoying, but it's not a dental emergency. You can try to remove the food with floss or a toothpick. If you can't remove it, you can wait to see your dentist at your next scheduled appointment.
Minor Gum Bleeding: Minor gum bleeding while brushing or flossing is usually not a dental emergency. It may be a sign of gingivitis, which is a mild form of gum disease. However, if the bleeding is excessive, persistent, or accompanied by pain or swelling, it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible.
Maintaining Good Oral Health
By practicing good oral hygiene, you can help prevent many dental problems that may lead to emergencies. Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health.
When to See a Dentist
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should see a dentist immediately:
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Severe pain that does not go away with over-the-counter pain medication |
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Swelling of the face, mouth, or gums |
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Bleeding that does not stop after 10 minutes |
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A broken or knocked-out tooth |
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An infection in your mouth |
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between a dental emergency and a non-emergency can help you save time, money, and stress. While some dental problems may seem alarming, they may not require an emergency visit to the dentist. By practicing good oral hygiene and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings, you can help prevent many dental problems and maintain a healthy smile.
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