Common Types of Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies can strike anytime. They happen when you meet with an accident, when the filling falls out, and your tooth gets damaged, or when your tooth gets cracked. If your dental emergency is severe, you should seek medical attention from your dentist right away.

The most common dental emergencies are:

Knocked-out tooth

A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate treatment. This occurs when a tooth is dislodged from its socket.

If you or your child loses a tooth, it’s important to call your dentist immediately. Sometimes, a dentist will be able to re-implant a knocked-out tooth. However, if the tooth cannot be re-implanted, the dentist may place the tooth in a glass of saliva or milk to preserve it.

Broken tooth

Broken teeth can happen in many forms. A tooth can chip, break, or crack. If the tooth cracks, the crack may progress into the root and cause the tooth to fall out. If your tooth cracks, you need to visit your dentist as soon as possible.

Chipped tooth

If the tooth chips, it may only affect the enamel. An enamel fracture may not affect the underlying structures of the tooth, which means the tooth may be able to be saved. If your tooth is chipped, your dentist may recommend a dental bonding or veneer treatment.

Lost filling

A lost filling is one of the most common dental emergencies. A lost filling means that the tooth is unprotected. Bacteria and food particles can more easily become stuck between teeth, causing decay and gum disease. Make sure you call our office right away for a replacement filling.

Abscessed tooth

An abscessed tooth requires urgent treatment. An abscessed tooth is a serious dental emergency that requires immediate treatment. If you have tooth pain, it’s important to visit your dentist as soon as possible.

An abscessed tooth is the result of an infection in your tooth or gums. If the infection is not treated promptly, it can spread to your bloodstream, which can be life-threatening.

Lost crown or bridge

When a patient loses a crown or bridge, it’s very important that they visit us as soon as possible. If the crown or bridge isn’t replaced, the patient may notice sensitivity, discomfort, and other problems. Even a temporary crown or bridge is better than none — it can protect the tooth from further damage.

Wish to learn more about dental emergency services? Schedule an appointment with us at Silver Summit Dental by calling us at (801) 542-0998, or visit our office at 5734 13400 S, Herriman, UT, 84096, between Monday to Friday for a consultation.