Nobody warns you right before tooth troubles appear. Throbbing toothaches, chipped teeth, bleeding or loose crowns can severely disrupt your day, and it can be hard to cope with the mental shock and physical discomfort, let alone knowing the right steps to take next. Wishfully thinking, many people grin and bear it, hoping the pain will just go away!
From the outset, dental emergencies can be inconvenient, disrupting our routines, but this initial trouble pales in comparison with the mega-trouble that can arise if we ignore them or only treat the symptoms but neglect their cause. Short-term discomfort might seem manageable with home remedies and over-the-counter painkillers, but this approach brings unacceptable risks of long-term impacts. Untreated, dental emergencies can develop into disasters faster than you may realise.
How untreated emergencies worsen
Most dental emergencies fall into three categories: traumatic (chipped teeth, knocked-out teeth), infectious (abscesses, gum infections) and post-procedural (crown or filling dislodgement). Regardless of the cause, leaving them untreated can lead to many different problems:
Increased pain and discomfort
Ignoring a dental emergency is like ignoring a flashing warning light. What starts as a mild ache can rapidly intensify into severe, throbbing pain, affecting your ability to sleep, eat and concentrate. Cracked or broken teeth may develop sharp edges, irritating your tongue or gums, while loose or dislodged teeth can impair your speech and ability to chew.
Risk of infection
The mouth naturally harbours a large number of bacteria. A dental emergency, such as a cavity or a chipped tooth, can create an entry point for these bacteria to invade the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the jawbone and surrounding tissues, causing swelling, pain and fever. In severe cases, the infection may enter the bloodstream and spread to other body parts, posing a potentially deadly health risk.
Domino effect on overall health
The strength of the connection between oral health and overall health is becoming increasingly evident. Studies have found chronic gum disease, often resulting from untreated dental emergencies, is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and respiratory problems. Additionally, untreated dental issues can make many existing health conditions worse. For instance, poor oral health can complicate our bodies’ abilities to control blood sugar, thereby negatively impacting diabetes.
Cost of neglect
While a trip to the dentist might seem expensive at the moment, the multifaceted cost of ignoring a dental emergency can be far greater in the long run. Early intervention is often able to address the issue with a simpler, less expensive procedure. However, neglecting the problem can mean more extensive and costly treatments, like root canals, extractions or even reconstructive surgery.
Kicking the can down the road allows a worsening condition to increasingly degrade your health, create greater physical and mental discomfort, and necessitate more expensive procedures. It is invariably better to do your best on prevention and early treatment, which can prevent this potential world of trouble and save your wallet.
Lowers self-esteem and impacts social interactions
When we let oral health problems grow, we may end up with smiles that we do not feel so proud to show. Missing or damaged teeth can negatively affect your smile’s appearance and your self-confidence. This lack of confidence can lead to social anxiety, making it difficult to interact with others freely. You might find yourself avoiding conversations, smiling with your lips tightly sealed, or withdrawing from social situations altogether.
Seek professional help from your dentist
A dental emergency can feel overwhelming, but don’t let fear prevent you from seeking the professional help you need. Dentists are highly trained to address a wide range of emergencies, and a visit is the quickest path to relief and recovery.
Here’s why a dentist is your best bet for managing a dental emergency:
Quick pain relief: Dentists are equipped to diagnose the source of your pain, whether it’s severe tooth pain, a sharp crack or an irritated gum. They can then provide immediate action to alleviate your discomfort and get you feeling better fast.
Infection control: Dental emergencies can create openings for infection. Your dentist will take steps to prevent the spread of infection, potentially using antibiotics or other treatments (e.g., scaling and root planing) to keep you healthy.
Restoring oral function: Damaged teeth, loose fillings or jaw injuries can significantly impact your ability to eat, speak and smile freely. Dentists have the expertise to repair or replace damaged structures, restoring oral function and confidence.
Long-term care: Beyond addressing the immediate emergency, your dentist will thoroughly assess your oral health. They can recommend preventive measures and a personalised treatment plan to minimise the risk of future problems, keeping your smile healthy and strong for years to come.
Prevention is key
The best way to deal with dental emergencies is to prevent them in the first place. Here are some tips for maintaining good oral hygiene:
1. Brushing and flossing: Brushing twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily removes plaque and bacteria, the culprits behind cavities and gum disease. This plaque buildup, if left unchecked, can contribute to emergencies like toothaches and abscesses.
2. Regular dental checkups: Think of your dentist as your oral health superhero. Biannual checkups and cleanings allow them to detect and address minor issues before they morph into major emergencies. Early intervention can save you pain, time and money in the long run.
3. Diet matters: Sugary foods and drinks create a feeding frenzy for the bacteria in your mouth, accelerating tooth decay. Limiting sugary treats and opting for water over sugary drinks helps keep your teeth strong and healthy, reducing the risk of cavities and the potential for future emergencies.
4. Protect your smile: If you participate in sports or activities with a risk of facial impact, wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard is crucial. A mouthguard can prevent chipped, cracked or knocked-out teeth, saving you from the pain and hassle of a dental emergency.
Don’t wait until the pain is unbearable
Dental emergencies are stressful and disruptive, but knowing what to do before they happen is your best bet. The first point to remember is many potential oral health troubles are very unlikely to develop if you prioritise regular dental check-ups and practise good oral hygiene. Secondly, when trouble does strike, get your dentist on the case right away!
Your dentist is your partner in oral health, so don’t hesitate to reach out about any concerns you might have. Take care of your teeth now and address all of your niggling troubles before they have an opportunity to grow. Make regular small but necessary investments in your oral health to ensure a lifetime of greater well-being and peace of mind.
