When Should You See an Emergency Dentist in Markham?
Dental pain and injuries can be confusing when they happen. Is this something that can wait until your next regular appointment, or should you be calling for help right away? It is a question we hear often, and the answer is not always obvious.
At Royal Crest Dentistry, we want our patients and their families to feel confident knowing when it is time to see an emergency dentist in Markham. Here is a helpful guide to walk you through it.
Signs You Should See an Emergency Dentist
Some dental issues need attention right away to prevent further damage or complications. You should reach out to us as soon as possible if you experience:
- A knocked-out or badly loosened tooth
- A cracked, chipped, or broken tooth
- Severe tooth pain that does not go away
- Swelling in the face, gums, or jaw
- A lost filling or crown that is causing pain
- Bleeding in the mouth that will not stop
- An object stuck between your teeth that will not come out with flossing
If you are dealing with any of these, do not wait it out. Quick action can often mean the difference between saving a tooth and losing one.
Why Timing Matters
Some dental emergencies are very time sensitive. For example, a knocked-out tooth has the best chance of being saved if it is placed back in the socket or brought to us within about 30 to 60 minutes. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to treat some situations effectively.
Even when a tooth cannot be saved on the spot, seeing us quickly still helps prevent infection and reduces pain and complications down the road.
When It Might Not Be a True Emergency
Not every dental issue requires an urgent visit. Some situations can typically wait until a regular appointment, such as:
- Mild tooth sensitivity
- A small chip that does not cause pain
- Minor discomfort from a new filling or crown
That said, if you are ever unsure, it is always better to call our office and ask rather than guess. We would much rather help you sooner than have a small issue turn into a bigger one.
What to Do While You Wait to Be Seen
If you are dealing with a dental emergency, a few simple steps can help in the meantime:
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm water
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
- Keep a knocked-out tooth moist in milk or saliva
- Avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth
Acting quickly and seeking professional care promptly after a dental injury can greatly improve the chances of a successful outcome.
When to Go to the Emergency Room Instead
Some situations go beyond what a dental office can treat. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- A possible broken or dislocated jaw
- Rapidly spreading facial swelling
For everything else related to your teeth and gums, our team is ready to help.
We Are Here When You Need Us
Dental emergencies are stressful enough without having to guess what to do next. At Royal Crest Dentistry, we make it a priority to see our emergency patients quickly so you can get relief and peace of mind as soon as possible.
If you think you may be dealing with a dental emergency, please do not wait. Contact us today so we can help you get the care you need right when you need it.
