There are many tooth and gum issues adults and children will experience that need immediate attention from a dentist. Waiting until your next routine appointment to address such concerns only increases the chances of serious side effects and secondary infections. Protect your smile by calling us for an emergency appointment whenever you encounter something painful that just can’t wait.
What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?
Oral injury or pain can be discomforting, but not every toothache, tooth sensitivity, or swollen gum requires seeing your dentist urgently. At the same time, what qualifies as a dental emergency depends on factors such as the type of injury and pain level. For example, severe tooth pain in kids is considered a child’s tooth emergency.
Consider seeking emergency dentistry for you or your child for these other conditions below:
Conditions that May Not Require Emergency Dentistry
Swelling and pain are typically signs of an injury or infection. While these may be reasons for seeing your dentist, they may not always reach the level of a dental emergency. Other problems that may not require an emergency dentist include mild or off-and-on pain and pain that does not worsen. So are minor tooth cracks or chips, cheek bites, gum bruisesm, or loose orthodontics that do not affect chewing or speech. While all of these are symptoms you’ll want to bring to your dentist’s attention at your next appointment, they don’t all necessarily constitute an emergency.
It can be challenging to assess your child’s pain level or when to seek emergency care. Whether it’s you or your child, call your dentist to discuss your symptoms and decide whether or not emergency dental treatments are necessary.
Why Choosing an Emergency Dentist Is Important
All dentists are not the same. Some have advanced training in specialized areas of dentistry. Our emergency dentist in St. Petersburg, FL has advanced education, training, and expertise in emergency dentistry for adults and children. Dr. Jacqueline Vineyard is driven by compassion for each patient and a desire to provide the highest quality of care. Here is a list of dental emergency services we offer:
How to Prepare for Dental Emergencies
Being prepared allows you to provide first-aid care and reduce the risk of complications. Always keep a dental first aid kit with necessary emergency supplies. Ensure it contains a supply of sterile gauze, cotton balls, cotton swabs, band-aids, alcohol wipes, and over-the-counter painkillers. Other vital supplies include hydrogen peroxide, dental wax, sterile gloves, and heat or ice packs. Have a small lidded container for storing a knocked-out or chipped tooth. Keep dental devices, such as a mouth guard, on hand. A mouth guard helps prevent further oral damage while awaiting emergency dentistry.
Give Us a Call
Don’t wait. Schedule an appointment immediately to see our emergency dentist in St. Petersburg, FL. Our clinic is equipped with the tools and technology needed for family, endodontic, and emergency dental services.
Please call (727) 966-3216 or click below to schedule an appointment online. We can't wait to meet you!
