6 Signs You Have a Dental Emergency

You probably never expect a dental emergency to happen to you, but it’s more common than you might realize. In fact, research shows 1 in 6 Americans find themselves in this situation annually. While you can’t always predict an unplanned trip to your emergency dentist in Green Lake here are 6 signs one is looming in your future if you don’t get the care you need.

1. Loose or wiggly tooth.

A permanent tooth should never feel loose or wiggly, especially if you haven’t experienced any trauma. If a tooth is loose without any apparent cause, there is an underlying issue brewing in your mouth, like infection. Treating the infection will stop it from spreading, and it might even prevent an extraction.

2. Toothache.

Despite what many people believe, even an occasional toothache is never normal. In fact, it is often the result of an untreated cavity or infection. Even if the pain comes and goes, you need to see your dentist in Green Lake to prevent it from turning into a bigger issue that could cost you your tooth.

3. Sore or bleeding gums.

Many people attribute sore or bleeding gums to aggressive oral hygiene habits, but they are often the result of periodontal disease. The infection occurs in the gingival tissue and destroys the supporting structures for your teeth. As the leading cause of tooth loss, it’s important to get prompt treatment to prevent irreversible damage to your smile.

4. Dental abscess.

If a pimple-like bump appears near the root of a tooth, there’s a big problem beneath the surface. An abscess is a very painful infection that can lead to the loss of your tooth. Besides pain and a bump, you might also have a fever or a bad taste in your mouth. It’s essential you see your dentist right away.

5. Numb tooth.

There is nothing worse than a toothache. While you want the pain to subside, you don’t want to lose feeling in your tooth completely. This is a sign the infection has spread deeper into your tooth and could be affecting the nerves. You’ll need a root canal to stop the infection and save your tooth.

6. Metallic taste.

If you have a metallic taste in your mouth, an old filling may have cracked or become loose. If it’s not treated, harmful bacteria can seep in and cause decay or an infection. Thankfully, your dentist can easily replace the restoration to protect your tooth from any future damage.

Don’t Wait to See Your Dentist

Although no one ever expects a dental emergency to happen to them, they are quite common and often occur without any warning. If you develop any unusual dental symptoms, don’t wait to see your dentist. They can stop a dental emergency before it even starts.