Dental emergencies can be a frightening experience particularly if you’re unprepared on the next steps to treat them. We’ve focused on the most common dental emergencies, and whilst most require you to contact your local dentist for an appointment, it is important you’re aware of the common dental treatments that are typically carried out at the dental practice to cure those emergencies.
In any kind of dental emergency, the dentist will be best placed to determine what the next steps are. The following general dentistry treatments are more likely to be carried out:
For A Chipped Or Cracked Tooth
- Root Canal – A root canal is required if a tooth has been severely cracked beyond repair. The nerve or pulp formed is removed from inside the tooth. A crown is then placed on the tooth to protect the natural healthy remains of the tooth.
- Dental Filling or Bonding – If a small chip has occurred on the enamel, the dentist can repair the damage with a filling. Alternatively, if the front tooth is chipped hiding your smile, the dentist will perform a dental bonding procedure. This involves using a liquid or gel to apply the bonding material to the surface of the tooth. The material is hardened and shaded to mirror how you’re natural teeth look.
For A Lost Filling
- Dental Filling – The dentist will typically replace the lost filling with another if possible. The dentist will examine the state of the tooth and go through the full cleaning process before administering a new filling. A crown may also be administered if it helps to protect the filling from any damage.
For Gum Disease
- Non-Surgical Treatments – Treatments for gum disease include a professional dental check-up to remove any plaque or tartar build-up within the gum line. Whilst it isn’t an active treatment, it is an important preventative measure as part of good oral health. The dentist may also consider a deep-clean procedure with anaesthetic to scrape away the plaque build-up.
- Surgical Treatments – There are some surgical treatments for major gum disease. These are only carried out in major emergencies. Treatments such as Bone Graft, which involves replacing destroyed bone or Tissue Regeneration, which is performed to stimulate and strengthen the bone and gum-tissue would be carried out.
For Oral Cancer
- Oral Cancer Screening – As part of your dental check-ups, regular oral cancer screenings are carried out first to ensure there are no signs of cancer forming in an around the mouth.
- Minor Surgery – Where tumours begin to form, the dentist may perform minor surgery to remove the small cancer signs. Larger tumours forming may require further extensive treatment. The dentist is best placed to determine the extent of the treatment required.
Summary
Dental emergencies can occur at any time and it is important to be prepared for it. Sometimes, a local dentist may not be able to fit you in for a dental emergency appointment straight away. Therefore, follow the emergency support tips to stay prepared to act if you suffer from a dental emergency.
If you’re seeking support from your local dentist, contact us here and we’d be happy to help.
