A cracked tooth is one of the common dental emergencies. It’s not always easy to determine whether a cracked tooth requires emergency dental care, especially if the crack is small and does not cause pain. However, it’s essential to see a dentist as soon as possible if emergency dentist bournemouth you suspect or have a cracked tooth. Prompt dental care can help you save your tooth and avoid complications that may result in severe dental problems. If you live in Bournemouth, here’s when you should seek emergency dental care for a cracked tooth.
When the Tooth is Painful
Pain is a sign that something is not right with your tooth. If you crack your tooth, and it’s painful, it’s critical to seek emergency dental care. The pain can be sharp, throbbing, or a constant ache. Painful cracks occur when the crack extends below the gum line, where the tooth’s nerves are. When the crack reaches the pulp, your tooth may become sensitive to temperature changes and pressure, and you could suffer from severe pain. You may need root canal treatment to remove the damaged pulp to avoid infection.
When the Tooth is Bleeding
If your cracked tooth is bleeding, you should seek emergency dental care. The bleeding indicates that the tooth has cracked to the root, where there is a blood vessel. Bleeding makes it difficult to determine the severity of the crack and any possible damage to the root. Your dentist may use an X-ray to examine the tooth’s condition and determine the best course of treatment.
When You Experience Swelling
Swelling in your gum or jaw around the cracked tooth is a sign of infection. Cracks allow bacteria to penetrate the tooth and cause infection in the pulp. If the infection is left untreated, it can spread to the bone and other teeth, causing severe complications. Swelling may also indicate that the tooth has cracked to the root, and the infection has spread to the surrounding tissues. Swelling can be accompanied by fever and difficulty swallowing. Seek emergency dental care as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading.
When You Are Experiencing Difficulty Chewing or Speaking
Cracks can weaken the tooth structure, making it difficult to chew or speak. If you find it painful or challenging to bite down on food or talk, seek emergency dental care immediately. Difficulty chewing or speaking can also indicate that the crack has extended beneath the gum line, where it’s hard to see. A dentist can use a special tool to detect the crack and restore your tooth’s strength.
In conclusion, a cracked tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention. Don’t ignore any signs of a cracked tooth, as delaying treatment can lead to serious dental problems. Seek emergency dental care if your tooth is painful, bleeding, swollen, or causing difficulty chewing or speaking. At the clinic, the dentist will evaluate your tooth’s condition and determine the best course of treatment to save your tooth and prevent complications. Always remember to keep your teeth healthy and safe and don’t hesitate to seek dental care when in doubt.