Typically, experts recommend a dental check-up every six months as a preventative measure against cavities and other problems. However, there are times when you have to visit the dentist because you need emergency dental care. But what constitutes a dental emergency, and how can you tell if your case needs immediate attention? Here are some scenarios to consider.

When Is a Toothache an Emergency?

Tooth pain is usually something that will send you running straight to the dentist. If you’re brave enough to endure the pain for a few days, you may end up with an infection or worse. Therefore, it’s essential to realize when a toothache requires immediate dental care before the damage becomes permanent.

Generally, you will need immediate attention if your tooth has been knocked out or if you have excessive bleeding. The intensity of the pain also matters. If the pain is mild, you might be able to hold out for a dental appointment. Still, if you’re experiencing sharp pain and extreme sensitivity to high or low temperatures, then you probably need emergency dental care.

After all, a toothache is one of the most uncomfortable feelings, and if over-the-counter medication doesn’t do the trick, it could be something more serious. You should also watch out for other signs that your toothache requires emergency dental care. For instance, dental abscesses, swollen gums or jaws, loose teeth, fever, and difficulty breathing or swallowing are all red alert signs.

What Doesn’t Require Emergency Dental Care?

Not every dental problem requires immediate care. Sometimes, it’s possible to wait several days until your appointment date is due. In the meantime, you can take pain medication to alleviate the pain. Generally, if you do not have an infection or sharp pain, you may not need emergency dental care. However, if you’re not sure if your symptoms signal an emergency, it’s best to contact your dentist or walk in for an emergency appointment. When it comes to your dental health, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Once you have been treated, it’s still important to schedule routine appointments with a dentist so you can catch any dental problems early. Dentists are trained to detect cavities, which helps to avoid infections later on. Sure, there will always be unavoidable dental emergencies like getting your teeth knocked out, in which case you have the information above to help you out.