The Role of Urgent Dental Care in Preserving Oral Health
Dental emergencies, such as severe toothaches, a broken jaw or knocked-out teeth, can be extremely painful and lead to long-term damage if not addressed promptly. Emergency dentistry is a specialty that addresses these sudden, serious oral health issues, providing prompt treatment and safeguarding your long-term oral health.
Dental problems are among the most common ailments in the United States, causing significant pain, discomfort and damage when not treated promptly. Almost 132 million Americans lack dental insurance, and those without dental coverage have a much higher risk of tooth decay than those with it. In addition, those who are unable to afford regular dental care have the highest rate of unmet oral health needs, which can cause other health complications and impact their quality of life.
Many people don’t realize that their dental emergencies are urgent, but they are. Dental problems like temperature sensitivity and a cracked tooth need immediate professional attention, as they indicate that the enamel of your teeth has eroded, and this exposes the sensitive nerves inside your mouth to the hot or cold liquids you consume. This can cause significant pain and even lead to gum disease.
Other dental emergencies include infections and abscesses in the mouth, which can be incredibly uncomfortable and dangerous when left untreated. Symptoms include swelling, pain, fever and pus formation. Urgent dental care can drain the infection, relieve your symptoms and help prevent more serious health complications in the future.
Emergency treatments and procedures are used to address these dental emergencies and restore oral health. They can involve emergency tooth extractions, dental fillings, root canals and repositioning or repairing knocked-out or loose teeth. Emergency care can also save natural teeth that would otherwise be lost.
The goal of emergency dental treatment is to resolve the problem, alleviate your pain and protect your dental health. However, dental emergencies don’t always happen at convenient times, which makes it important to have access to 24/7 dental care. Many medical facilities, including urgent care clinics, now have dentists on staff for your convenience.
Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help detect and prevent tooth decay and other conditions that could become emergencies. In addition, it is a good idea to limit your consumption of acidic liquids and sugary foods, as these can contribute to tooth erosion and decay. A healthy diet and routine dental visits can help you maintain a lifetime of good oral health. With proper care, your teeth can last for the rest of your life. If you have any questions about how to preserve your oral health, don’t hesitate to call Smart Dental Cosmetic and General Dentistry. We are always here to help. We offer comprehensive general, family, and emergency dental services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you. Our dental office is located in the heart of Northbrook. We are proud to serve patients from all over the Northbrook area, and we are committed to making your experience as comfortable as possible.