When it comes to oral health emergencies, timing is everything. Small dental issues can quickly escalate into painful ordeals if left untreated. Whether it’s discomfort, swelling, or sensitivity, certain symptoms are your mouth’s way of saying it’s time to see a professional ASAP.
Here are 10 dental emergency warning signs you should never ignore and why scheduling an appointment with Camas Dentistry right away can make all the difference.
1. Persistent or Severe Tooth Pain
A toothache that lasts more than a day or two without relenting (or one that actually worsens with time) isn’t normal. It may indicate decay, a deep cavity, or even an infection in the nerve and requires prompt attention.
2. Swollen, Red, or Bleeding Gums
If you find regular brushing or flossing leaves your gums sore or bloody, you may be developing gum disease. In its early stages, gingivitis, or gum disease, is easily treatable. Left untreated, however, it can lead to painful infection and even tooth loss.
3. Sudden Tooth Sensitivity
Sudden and extreme sensitivity to hot or cold foods often points to enamel erosion or hidden decay.
4. Cracked or Broken Teeth
Even the smallest chip can expose your inner tooth structure to bacteria. This increases your risk for infection and pain. Timely treatment, on the other hand, is usually quick and painless.
5. Loose or Knocked-Out Teeth
A loose adult tooth is always an emergency. Quick intervention, ideally within an hour, can give your emergency dentist in Camas a chance to save your natural tooth.
6. Jaw Pain or Clicking
Persistent jaw discomfort or popping noises may indicate TMJ dysfunction or excessive clenching or grinding habits (bruxism) that require care and/or a custom nightguard.
7. Facial or Gum Swelling
Visible swelling can signal an abscess or infection that needs urgent treatment to prevent it from spreading.
8. Lingering Mouth Sores
Any sore lasting more than two weeks should be evaluated for possible infection or oral cancer.
9. Metallic Taste or Chronic Bad Breath
These can be signs of gum disease or an untreated cavity. Seeking out immediate care just in case is a great way to avoid pain, expense, and inconvenience in the future.
10. Broken or Lost Fillings or Crowns
If a restoration fails, don’t wait to have it replaced. The empty void where the restoration used to be can allow bacteria to enter the tooth, causing decay and painful infection.
Ignoring these signs can turn a simple fix into a major dental problem. Prompt attention helps protect your oral health, comfort, and smile.
Prompt and Effective Emergency Dental Care in Camas, WA
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms we just discussed, don’t wait another day! Dr. Demian Woyciehowsky and the friendly and skilled Camas Dentistry team are standing by to provide gentle, personalized emergency care when you need it most!