Dental emergencies can strike at any time, causing severe pain and potentially jeopardizing your oral health. Knowing when to seek immediate professional care is crucial for preventing further complications and alleviating discomfort. Our local residents can rely on the expertise of emergency dentists in Lehi, like Dr. Brandon J. Valgardson and Dr. John Armstrong at Thanksgiving Point Dental. This comprehensive guide will help you understand when to call an emergency dentist in Lehi and how these skilled professionals can assist you in urgent situations.
Severe Tooth Pain
One of the most common reasons to seek emergency dental care is intense, persistent tooth pain. This discomfort can be caused by various issues, including:
- Advanced tooth decay
- Dental abscess
- Cracked or fractured tooth
- Exposed tooth roots
If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain relievers, it’s time to contact an emergency dentist in Lehi. At Thanksgiving Point Dental in Lehi, Dr. Valgardson and Dr. Armstrong can quickly diagnose the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment to alleviate your pain.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is a time-sensitive dental emergency that requires immediate attention. If you or a family member experiences a knocked-out tooth:
- Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root
- Gently rinse it with water (don’t scrub)
- Try to reinsert it into the socket or store it in milk or saliva
- Contact Thanksgiving Point Dental immediately for emergency care
Dr. Valgardson and Dr. Armstrong have extensive experience treating knocked-out teeth and can provide the best chance to save your natural tooth.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
Accidents happen, and a broken or chipped tooth can occur for various reasons, such as sports injuries, falls, or biting down on hard objects. While minor chips may not require immediate attention, larger breaks or fractures should be treated as soon as possible to prevent infection and further damage. The emergency dentists at Thanksgiving Point Dental can assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate treatments, such as dental bonding, veneers, or crowns.
Lost Filling or Crown
Losing a filling or crown can expose the vulnerable parts of your tooth to bacteria and potential damage. If you lose a dental restoration, you must seek emergency dental care to prevent decay and infection. Dr. Valgardson and Dr. Armstrong can quickly replace lost fillings or crowns, ensuring your tooth remains protected and functional.
Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a severe infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and tooth. Symptoms include:
- Intense, throbbing pain
- Swelling in the face or cheek
- Fever
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Bad taste in the mouth
If you suspect you have a dental abscess, it’s crucial to seek emergency dental care immediately. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of your body and become life-threatening. The experienced team at Thanksgiving Point Dental can provide prompt treatment, including draining the abscess, prescribing antibiotics, or performing a root canal.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Injuries to the mouth’s soft tissues, such as the tongue, cheeks, gums, and lips, can cause significant bleeding and discomfort. If you experience a soft tissue injury that doesn’t stop bleeding after applying pressure for 15-20 minutes, it’s time to call an emergency dentist in Lehi. Dr. Valgardson and Dr. Armstrong can assess the injury, stop the bleeding, and ensure proper healing of the affected area.
Severe Swelling
Unexplained mouth, jaw, or face swelling can indicate a serious underlying issue, such as an infection or abscess. If you notice sudden, severe swelling, especially if accompanied by pain or fever, contact Thanksgiving Point Dental for emergency care. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent the spread of infection and alleviate discomfort.
Orthodontic Emergencies
For patients with braces or other orthodontic appliances, emergencies can occur when wires break, or brackets come loose. While not all orthodontic issues require immediate attention, an emergency dentist should address situations that cause significant pain or injury to the mouth. Dr. Valgardson and Dr. Armstrong can provide temporary relief and advise on the next steps for your orthodontic care.
Emergency Dentist in Lehi
Knowing when to call an emergency dentist in Lehi can make a significant difference in preserving your oral health and alleviating pain. If you experience any of the situations above or have concerns about a potential dental emergency, don’t hesitate to contact Thanksgiving Point Dental. Dr. Brandon J. Valgardson and Dr. John Armstrong are committed to providing prompt, effective care to restore your smile and peace of mind.
