In a dental emergency, prompt treatment helps relieve pain and increase the likelihood that you'll be able to keep the affected tooth. However, it can often be difficult to determine what issues require a trip to an emergency dentist. To better ensure your comfort and oral health, here are a few signs to look for.

How to Tell if You Need to See an Emergency Dentist

1. A Loose Tooth

There are a variety of dental concerns that can cause a tooth to loosen, including injuries to the mouth, severe infections from advanced tooth decay or gum disease, and extreme grinding of the teeth. Emergency dental care will give you the best chances of preserving a loose tooth and restoring your ability to eat and speak with comfort. If a tooth has fallen out completely, rinse it off in cool water, being sure not to touch the roots; reinsert it into the socket; and hold it in place by biting down on a piece of medical gauze. If this is unsuccessful, store the tooth in a glass of milk or saline solution and bring it with you to the dentist.

2. Serious Pain

A mild toothache is generally no cause for alarm. However, pain that is severe and persistent can signal a more serious problem, such as an abscess or damage to the nerve. To be on the safe side, seek immediate dental care, and in the meantime, you can often minimize discomfort by applying a cold compress to the side of the face and taking over-the-counter pain relievers.

3. A Swollen Jaw

After significant dental work, it's not uncommon for the jaw to swell as it heals. If you haven't had any recent work, swelling can be an indicator of potentially major oral health problems, like an infection of the salivary glands or in rare cases, cancer. Emergency care should be a priority in this situation. As with toothache pain, cold compresses and pain relievers can help make you comfortable until you can get to a dentist.

If you notice any of these signs, contact emergency dentist Mark Stephens, DMD. For over 20 years, Dr. Stephens and his staff have been serving the Richmond, KY, area. They offer emergency and general family dentistry services, including exams, crowns, dentures, and teeth whitening. Call (859) 626-0069 to schedule an appointment or visit his website to explore his services in more detail.