Dental emergencies can occur at any time. Although they are generally not life threatening, dental emergencies still require timely treatment for the best treatment outcomes. At Apollo Dental Centre, we offer same day appointments and treatment for dental emergencies. Here are some examples of common dental emergencies, as well as how to manage them until you can be seen by one of our dentists:
Fractured Teeth:
With a fractured tooth, you may notice a visible fracture line or you may simply experience tooth pain that gets worse when pressure is applied. Until you can be seen, it is recommended to avoid chewing on the side with the affected tooth. Minor fractures that only affect the surface layer can be treated by sanding the tooth or placing composite resin. Moderate fractures that have damaged the enamel or dentin can be treated with a dental crown. Severe fractures that have damaged the pulp may be restored or extracted, depending on the extent of the damage.
Infection:
A pulp infection, known as pulpitis, can form when bacteria reach the inside of the tooth. This can cause severe tooth pain, sensitivity, and discoloration of the affected tooth. In some cases, an abscess can even form in the gum tissue or at the base of the tooth roots. To resolve the infection and prevent it from spreading, a root canal is generally performed and any abscesses are drained. Even if your abscess has already ruptured, it is important to seek dental care to completely eliminate the infection.
Knocked Out Tooth:
Certain types of accidents can lead to teeth being forced out of their normal position or even knocked out completely. When this happens, you will need to call our office immediately for an appointment. Then, locate the knocked out tooth. Once you have located the tooth, be sure to only handle the tooth by its crown, gently rinse off any debris, then place the tooth back in the mouth between the cheek and the gum or into a glass of milk.
Did You Know?
Dental emergencies can occur at any time. This is because they can be caused from something as simple as biting into hard foods. Another common cause of dental emergencies are sporting and auto accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Am I experiencing a dental emergency?
You are experiencing a dental emergency if you have:
- Sudden and/or severe tooth pain
- A fractured, chipped, displaced, or knocked out tooth
- Something lodged between two teeth that cannot be removed with floss
- A missing or broken dental restoration
- A single discolored tooth
- An abscess on the gums
Even if you are not sure, we recommend that you call our office as soon as possible to determine if you need to be seen by one of our dentists.
What can I expect when receiving emergency dental care at Apollo Dental Centre?
When you call Apollo Dental Centre for a dental emergency, we will schedule you for a same day appointment. Your exact expectations will vary depending on the type and severity of your dental emergency, as well as the treatment needed. Once you have been evaluated by one of our dentists, they will explain their treatment plan and answer any questions you may have. Depending on the type of treatment, dental sedation and anesthetics may be used.
Will I need to follow any special instructions after having emergency dental care?
Depending on the treatment performed, you may have some special instructions to follow after your appointment. In cases where dental sedation was used, you may also need to have a driver present to take you home after the procedure.
Apollo Dental Centre Calgary has two office locations at Beacon Hill & Westwinds that are open 7 days a week with weekend and evening hours to meet all your general dental, cosmetic dental, orthodontic, and emergency dental needs. Call to schedule a consultation today!