Unusual Pain in Your Smile? 10 Signs It’s a Dental Emergency
Does a toothache other discomfort in your mouth have your beautiful smile frowning? Oftentimes, pain or sensitivity in the teeth is caused by a cavity, poor oral hygiene, or chewing on hard objects. However, out-of-the-ordinary dental symptoms could also indicate you need immediate dental care. Do you know how to tell if you’re experiencing a dental emergency? Here are 10 signs that it’s time to call your Bridgeport emergency dentist right away.
1.) The Taste of Metal in Your Mouth
If a metal filling or crown is broken, you may taste metal in your mouth. This needs to be treated right away before the exposed vulnerable tooth becomes damaged or infected.
2.) A Canker Sore That Won’t Heal
The common canker sore should heal on its own within two weeks. If any cut in your mouth hasn’t healed after that long, it may be infected and need urgent care.
3.) Constant Headaches or Jaw Soreness
Regularly waking up with headaches and jaw soreness could mean that you grind your teeth in your sleep. This is called bruxism, and it can lead to broken teeth and TMJ disorder if left untreated.
4.) Bleeding or Aching Gum Tissue
Gums that are inflamed, aching, and bleed easily are common symptoms of gum disease. This bacterial infection is the leading cause of tooth loss in the US and can increase your risk of heart disease by 20%.
5.) Severe Toothache
Minor toothaches are often the result of tooth decay. However, a severe, long-lasting toothaches that has gotten worse with time could mean that your tooth is infected and in danger of being lost.
6.) A Numb Tooth
A toothache that’s suddenly replaced by nothingness may feel like a relief, but a numb tooth could mean the dental infection causing the pain has gotten worse, not better.
7.) Loose Permanent Teeth
If the connective tissues that hold your permanent teeth in place are damaged or attacked by bacteria, your teeth may become loose and fall out. However, it may be saved if you see your dentist right away.
8.) Small Bump on the Gums
A pimple-like bump on the gums, especially near a tooth that’s painful or discolored, could be a sign of a tooth abscess. This infection could spread to other teeth and throughout the body if left untreated.
9.) Fever or Fatigue
Your body’s natural reaction to infection is often fever and fatigue. This holds true even if the serious infection is in your mouth. These can be life-threatening if allowed to progress, so see your dentist right away.
10.) Swelling in the Jaw, Face, or Neck
Swelling in or near your mouth is another symptom of a serious infection that needs to be treated by your dentist as soon as possible. However, if you are having difficulty breathing or swallowing, go directly to your local emergency room.
Even if you’re unsure if your situation counts as a dental emergency, give your dentist a call anyways. They can help you decide on what you should do next and how to manage uncomfortable symptoms over the phone. With quick, correct action during a dental emergency, you should be able to get back to enjoying your happy and healthy smile right away!
About the Practice
Your health and safety have always been our number one priority at Curtis Family Dentistry in Bridgeport, CT. That’s why Dr. Nizi Gupta and Dr. Michael Curtis do everything they can to see you as soon as possible after your dental emergency, preferably within hours of you calling our office. Alongside years of experience in handling complex dental urgent care, they’re also proud to offer the most advanced dental technology and sedation dentistry. If you or a loved one is experiencing a dental emergency, please don’t hesitate to contact them via theirwebsiteor at (203) 372-4296.