No one expects to need emergency dentists near me care, but severe tooth pain or an injury can happen suddenly. A dentist specializing in emergency dentistry can treat these problems before they become serious.

Severe tooth pain or pressure is a sign of an infection and should be treated immediately. Over-the-counter pain relievers and a rinse with saltwater can soothe discomfort until you reach an emergency dentist.

Toothache

Toothache is a sign of a dental problem and it can range from mild to severe. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can ease the symptoms, but it’s important to see an emergency dentist NYC as soon as possible.

The more serious problems include an infection, abscess or cracked tooth. These issues need to be treated immediately by the dentist using an anesthetic to open the infected area. Then, the dentist drains the abscess and may prescribe antibiotics.

If the pain is accompanied by a fever, chills or a facial rash, it could indicate a more serious issue and should be addressed at your local emergency room. Many emergency rooms and urgent care clinics have dentists on staff so you can receive immediate treatment. This type of clinic is especially helpful for patients who don’t have a dentist but are in pain. They can provide you with an X-ray, pain relief and possibly a root canal treatment.

Knocked-Out Tooth

Getting a tooth knocked out is one of the most severe forms of dental trauma. However, it does not mean that the tooth is lost forever. Taking quick action can help preserve it and have it reinserted successfully. Immediately after the injury, it is important to carefully pick up the tooth by the crown (chewing surface) and not the root. Rinse it with milk or water to remove dirt and debris. It is also important to let the dentist know if you took any pain medications before or after the accident.

Ideally, you should see the dentist within 30 minutes of the tooth being knocked out. If you can keep it in your mouth, place it between the gum and cheek or in a cup of milk to keep it moist. It is crucial to avoid touching the root surface of the tooth and to stay calm. If a knocked-out tooth is not treated promptly, it can die and lead to more serious problems.

Tooth Sensitivity

If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, you might experience a short burst of pain when you eat or drink something cold, hot, sweet, acidic, or hard. While this condition is not a dental disease, it does require professional attention. Tooth sensitivity can be caused by a range of dental issues including loss of enamel (the outer protective layer) and gum recession. Certain medical conditions such as gastroparesis and bulimia can also destroy enamel, exposing dentin and making teeth more sensitive.

Fortunately, there are many treatments for tooth sensitivity that can help you find relief. For mild cases, rinsing with salt water may be enough to provide temporary relief. If your sensitivity is severe, your dentist may recommend a desensitizing toothpaste or fluoride treatment that strengthens current enamel and reduces sensations that reach the nerve. They might also suggest a gum graft to cover exposed dentin or root. This will help you reclaim your ability to enjoy all of your favorite foods and beverages again.

Tooth Injury

Tooth injury is a common dental emergency and can be caused by sports, falls, car accidents or other incidents. Painkillers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen are recommended until a visit to a dentist is possible.

Severe tooth trauma, such as a knocked-out tooth, requires immediate attention. Rinsing with salt water can help disinfect the area and a cold compress will reduce swelling. If a knocked-out tooth can be restored to its socket, do so but avoid touching the root. Alternatively, place the tooth inside of milk or in a small cup until an appointment can be made.

Infection and abscesses are also serious dental emergencies that require the care of a specialist. Treatment can include antibiotics and draining of the pus pocket under local anaesthetic. Surgical interventions may be necessary to correct the root cause of the abscess such as gum reconstruction. These treatments are usually reserved for adults. Pediatric patients can usually be treated with restorative dental procedures.