Dental emergencies can be overwhelming, and a cracked tooth with sudden pain is even more difficult to handle. A cracked tooth requires immediate dental treatment that provides relief and addresses the root cause of the issue. This is where the role of a family dental clinic with an emergency dentist becomes crucial.

Beyond providing urgent dental care, Emergency Dentists are trained to handle the distress that comes with dental emergencies. They are known to create a comforting and reassuring environment for patients dealing with the unexpected challenges of a cracked tooth. This is what sets them apart from general dentists. Most local dentist services have a dedicated team of emergency dentists who cater to urgent dental cases.

At Prevent Dental Suite, we understand that choosing a dentist for emergencies is a challenge in itself. Our aim with this blog is to empower you with the right knowledge to choose an ideal emergency dentist.

Before we get to the specifics, let’s first understand the signs that indicate a dental emergency and the immediate steps one should take in case of a cracked tooth.

Key Signs That Indicate a Dental Emergency

  • Cracked or fractured tooth

A visibly cracked tooth is a sure-shot sign of a dental emergency. The cracked or fractured tooth may come with a sharp pain and indicates structural damage in most cases. This needs prompt attention from a dentist.

  • Severe tooth pain

If you are experiencing intense and persistent tooth pain, it can be a sign of an underlying issue that requires urgent attention and treatment.

  • Bleeding gums

Excessive bleeding from the gums that is unrelated to brushing and flossing may be a sign of a gum disease that needs to be taken care of promptly.

  • Swelling

Swelling in the gums or around the jaw may hint at an infection or a dental problem. Inflammation with pain should not be ignored.

  • Persistent bad breath

Chronic bad breath accompanied by other symptoms may be a sign of infection or decay.

Being aware of these signs can help you take timely action and prevent further complications. In situations when reaching an emergency dentist promptly may be challenging, it becomes crucial to implement immediate steps, particularly for a cracked tooth. Here are some key actions to consider:

Immediate Steps to Take When a Tooth Cracks

Along with searching for a ‘24-hour dentist near me’ on your search bar, make sure to follow these steps to alleviate pain and prevent further damage.

Step 1- Stay calm

It is normal to feel anxious during a dental emergency but the first step is to calm yourself down. This will help you assess the situation better and allow you to follow the next steps carefully.

Step 2- Rinse your mouth gently

Rinsing your mouth helps clean the area and rinse the blood away. This also removes debris and minimises the risk of infection. Do not brush your teeth at this point and use lukewarm water to rinse the mouth.

Step 3- Apply a cold compress

Apply a cold compress on the outside of your cheek or lips near the affected area. This provides relief from the pain and helps reduce inflammation.

Step 4- Look and seek medical assistance from a 24/7 dental care

Once you take the steps mentioned above, it is time to reach out to an emergency dentist. Try and communicate your dental case with clarity to speed up the appointment process.

Taking these immediate steps can provide temporary relief but they are not a substitute for professional dental care.

Now that we know how to manage in case of a cracked tooth, let’s understand how to find a reliable professional for emergency dental services.

Useful Tips to Find an Emergency Dentist

1. Get in touch with your regular dentist

Start by contacting your regular dental facility and ask if they provide emergency dental treatment in addition to local dentist services. If not, you can ask them for references and recommendations. This will save you a lot of time.

2.Narrow down your search as per the location

It is best to opt for an emergency dentist who is near to your workplace or residence. This ensures you can quickly reach the dental facility in case of an emergency.

3. Check online reviews

Read online reviews and testimonials from patients who have undergone emergency dental treatment in your shortlisted dental facilities. These reviews offer valuable insights into the quality of service.

4. Enquire about the dental clinic’s emergency protocols

Get in touch with the dental clinics you are considering and enquire about their response time to an emergency, available treatments for emergencies, and pre-appointment requirements. A reliable emergency dental clinic must provide you clear information.