No matter how well we take care of our teeth, accidents and other issues can still arise. How do you know when you need immediate dental care, and when you can wait for your next scheduled appointment?
The best way to find out whether you need immediate care is to call your Fioritto dentist. He/she will determine if it’s best to come in right away, or you can wait. In the meantime, here is some information to help you understand if immediate care is required:
- You have a broken tooth: Broken teeth can lead to serious dental problems when left untreated, including infections. If your tooth breaks, whether it’s from trauma, eating or another cause, call your Fioritto Dental as soon as possible. The faster you address the broken tooth, the less likely it is that you’ll experience any complications.
- You’re experiencing more than minor discomfort: Toothaches and other types of dental pain are a sign that something has gone awry. Your Fioritto dentist can diagnose and treat the issue so you are not in any discomfort. Avoid waiting to see if the problem goes away on its own.
- You have a metallic taste in your mouth: If you notice that your mouth has a metallic taste, it could be a sign of a cracked or loose fillings. This can be easily remedied, but you’ll want to see your Fioritto dentist as soon as possible.
- You suffer from headaches and persistent fatigue: Headaches can result from bruxism—grinding your teeth. Bruxism can also make it difficult to sleep, causing chronic fatigue. Headaches and fatigue may also be a sign that your body is fighting off an oral infection, or that your bite is misaligned. Schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible.
- You have a numb tooth: If one of your teeth goes numb, especially if it was prone to aches beforehand, it could be a sign that an infection or abscess has spread to the root. Schedule an appointment as soon as possible, so the infection does not spread further.
- Your jaw is swollen: A swollen jaw could be the sign of trauma, such as blunt force, but it can also signal an oral infection. If your jaw swells, and you haven’t had any dental procedures or accidents lately, be sure to seek dental care with us right away.
- Your gums are bleeding: Bleeding gums can be an early sign of gingivitis and gum disease, but they can also happen after you suffer oral trauma. If you’re having a hard time getting the bleeding to stop, you need immediate care. Even if you don’t need emergency assistance, make sure to schedule an appointment to address your bleeding gums and improve your periodontal health.
It’s always better to be proactive about your dental health. If you notice any of the signs above, call Fioritto Family Dental and get the care you need to protect your smile.