What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?

We all think that dental emergencies will never happen to us. Sadly, the truth is that one out of every six Americans will be faced with a dental emergency every year. While there’s never exactly a right time for one to happen, the last thing you likely need during this whole COVID-19 pandemic is to be saddled with an urgent dental problem. With many practices partially closed to slow the spread of the coronavirus, you might be wondering whether you should call your emergency dentist in Houston if a problem arises. Here are some signs to watch out for that let you know you need to call your dentist.

Common Dental Emergencies

Especially during a pandemic, not many people have time to make an extra trip to their dentist’s office to treat an emergency. Not to mention the fact that you risk exposure to the virus whenever you have to leave your house. However, there are certain situations where time is of the utmost importance. These are a few examples of urgent dental problems that require immediate care:

• Knocked-out tooth (you have only an hour before it can be successfully re-implanted)
• Trauma to the facial bones
• Suspected bacterial infection in the soft tissues in your mouth, often characterized by swelling and sometimes accompanied by fever
• Profuse bleeding, even after applying pressure for 15 minutes

In addition, there are other symptoms that warrant care from your dentist as soon as you can get it, but aren’t quite as urgent as the situations listed above. These include:

• Severe oral pain or swelling
• Pain in your third molars (wisdom teeth)
• Post-op complications like dry socket
• Broken or fractured tooth
• Lost crown, bridge, or filling

How Can I Prevent Dental Emergencies?

Although it’s impossible to prevent dental emergencies with 100% certainty, you can significantly reduce your risk by taking the following precautions:

• Remember to brush and floss your teeth every single day
• Wear an athletic mouthguard when you play sports
• Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth while you sleep
• Don’t use your teeth as tools to open packages, crack nuts, etc.
• Avoid chewing on inedible objects like ice or pencils
• Visit your dentist every six months for a regular checkup and cleaning

Don’t Hesitate to Call Your Dentist

If you experience a dental emergency like the ones listed above, please don’t be afraid to contact your emergency dentist in Houston. Even with the COVID-19 pandemic going on, your dentist will be able to give you the prompt, safe care you need to save your smile.

About the Author

Dr. Mark Gray graduated from the University of Texas Dental School in Houston in 1983 and promptly opened up his own practice in the same city. He is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, so he is an expert at placing and restoring dental implants to replace missing teeth. should you find yourself with any of the dental emergencies described in this post, you can contact Dr. Gray’s office via his website or by calling 281-493-9395.