If you’ve developed a dental dilemma, like a toothache or sensitivity, you might wonder how urgent it is and whether you should call your dentist in Ocala for a same-day emergency visit. If you’re not in pain, you might think the issue will resolve itself, so avoid contacting your provider.
Unfortunately, most oral problems don’t mend themselves and only progressively worsen over time. What may have been a minor concern can escalate into something requiring immediate attention if you wait to address it. Continue reading to learn more about what constitutes a dental emergency so you know when to seek help!
What Dental Emergencies Require a Same-Day Visit?
It’s natural to wonder whether your current dental condition can wait a little while or if you need to make a same-day appointment with your dentist. When it comes to dental problems, there can be many potential underlying causes, and some are more severe than others.
Some issues that often necessitate an immediate appointment can include:
- Chipped or broken teeth. Even seemingly minor fractures can extend beyond the surface, and any damage to your enamel gives bacteria a path to penetrate the tender pulp inside.
- Loose or missing adult teeth. Loose teeth should be addressed right away to avoid dislodging them, and lost teeth should be replaced sooner rather than later to avoid jawbone degeneration.
- Severe toothache. If you experience a sharp throbbing, it could point to damage or decay that must be treated to prevent additional harm or cavity contagion.
- Bleeding. Any bleeding to the mouth deserves a call to your dentist, though if it doesn’t stop after 10 minutes of firm pressure, it’s best to head to the nearest emergency room.
- Fever. If your oral problems present with other signs of infection, like sweating or fever, you might have an infection that has already spread to your bloodstream and needs to be treated.
- Swelling/facial distension. Puffy cheeks or gums are a sure sign that something’s not right, and you should get help asap.
What are Non-Urgent Dental Emergencies?
Areas of concern that might not require a same-day visit can include:
- Lost or damaged restorations. A missing tooth-colored filling or crown isn’t always urgent, but the underlying tooth is vulnerable without it in place so it will need to be retreated.
- Dull toothache. Mild sensitivity or discomfort can be due to aggressive overbrushing or eating too many acidic foods. Call your dentist and they can walk you through care tips over the phone, like trying a desensitizing toothpaste.
- Something lodged in your teeth. Trapped food can be incredibly frustrating, but you might hurt your teeth or gums trying to get it out. If flossing and rinsing with salt water at home hasn’t helped, your dental team can safely remove it.
Although these concerns might also need immediate attention, they can sometimes wait a day or two to be treated. It depends significantly on your unique circumstances, so if you feel unsure, it’s best to contact your dentist to schedule an appropriate time to see you.
About the Practice
At Weldon Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry of Ocala, you and your family benefit from a husband-and-wife dental duo who are passionate about helping you build and maintain a happy, healthy smile. Dr. Daniel Weldon and his wife, Dr. Elizabeth Estes Weldon, share decades of combined experience and work collaboratively to provide a comprehensive menu of services to people of all ages. Their relaxing, comfortable office environment is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to improve patient comfort while providing accurate treatment results meant to last. Plus, they offer same-day emergency appointments, so you don’t have to wait for relief. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (352) 622-3236.