Dental emergencies can be sudden, alarming, and sometimes even overwhelming. Understanding when to seek immediate dental help is crucial and can be pivotal in preserving your oral health. Here are clear signs indicating the need for urgent dental care.
A toothache that becomes progressively worse and doesn't respond to over-the-counter pain medication can indicate serious underlying issues, such as an abscess or severe infection. Such pain should never be ignored. An abscessed tooth, if left untreated, can lead to more serious systemic infections. The sooner you contact your Baton Rouge dentist, the better your chances of preventing further complications.
Adult teeth should ideally last a lifetime. If you find yourself with a loose or, worse, a knocked-out tooth, it’s a dental emergency. Time is of the essence in such situations, especially with a knocked-out tooth, as it has the highest chance of being saved if treated within an hour of the incident. A loose tooth, too, is a significant concern that can indicate injury or infection. Immediate dental care is essential in these cases to save the tooth and prevent further oral health issues.
Swelling in the jaw can be alarming and is often a sign of a serious infection, such as a salivary gland infection. This condition can be accompanied by fever, difficulty swallowing, breathing challenges, and a foul taste in the mouth. A swollen jaw requires prompt dental attention to diagnose and treat the underlying cause effectively. Neglecting such symptoms can lead to more severe health problems.
While mouth sores are relatively common, ones that do not heal or that worsen over time can be a cause for concern. These could be indicative of oral cancer or other serious health issues, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like fever, difficulty swallowing, or a persistent sore throat. Oral cancer screenings are a critical part of dental care and should be conducted promptly if such symptoms are present.
Post-operative complications such as significant bleeding, intense pain, or swelling after a dental procedure like an extraction or surgery are also red flags. These symptoms can indicate an infection or other complications related to the procedure and should be addressed by an emergency dentist immediately.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's essential to seek immediate dental care. At Stevens Dental, we understand the urgency of these situations. Dr. Kasan Stevens and our experienced team are equipped to handle a wide range of dental emergencies. Serving the Baton Rouge area, we are committed to providing prompt and efficient care to alleviate pain, address the issue, and ensure your oral health is preserved. Remember, acting quickly in a dental emergency can make a significant difference in the outcome. Call us today at (225) 291-2111 to schedule an emergency appointment. Your oral health is our highest priority.
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Wednesday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am-3:30pm
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