19 Aug Emergency Dentist in Apopka, FL: When You Should Call a Dentist Right Away
Summary
Need an emergency dentist in Apopka? Learn when tooth pain, swelling, a broken tooth or other dental problems require prompt dental care.
Emergency Dentist in Apopka, FL: When You Should Call a Dentist Right Away
A dental emergency can happen when you least expect it. A sudden toothache, cracked tooth, lost filling or swelling can quickly turn an ordinary day into a stressful situation. When something goes wrong with your teeth or gums, knowing when to contact an emergency dentist in Apopka can help relieve discomfort and, in some cases, save your tooth.
At Cohil Family Dentistry, Dr. Kirk K. Cohil and our team provide emergency dental care for patients in Apopka and surrounding communities. We understand that dental problems don’t always happen at convenient times, which is why dental emergencies are taken seriously and we make every effort to see emergency patients as quickly as possible.
What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?
Not every dental problem requires immediate treatment, but certain symptoms should not be ignored. Some of the most common reasons patients seek emergency dental care include:
- Severe or persistent tooth pain
- A cracked or broken tooth
- A knocked-out tooth
- Facial or gum swelling
- A dental abscess or suspected infection
- A lost or damaged filling
- A loose or damaged crown
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop
- Pain or swelling around a wisdom tooth
- Injury to the teeth or mouth
If you’re unsure whether your situation is an emergency, calling a dentist is usually the best first step.
Severe Toothache
A toothache is one of the most common reasons people look for an emergency dentist in Apopka, FL.
Occasional sensitivity may not indicate a serious problem, but persistent or severe pain can be a sign that something is wrong. Tooth decay, a cracked tooth, an infection or inflammation inside the tooth can all cause significant discomfort.
Rather than waiting for the pain to disappear on its own, having the tooth examined allows your dentist to determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Broken or Cracked Teeth
Teeth are remarkably strong, but they can still crack or break. Biting down on something hard, an accident, an old filling or years of wear can weaken a tooth.
A small chip may primarily be a cosmetic concern, while a deeper crack can expose sensitive portions of the tooth and potentially lead to additional damage.
Depending on the condition of the tooth, treatment may include a filling, dental crown, root canal or another restorative procedure designed to preserve as much of the natural tooth as possible.
Swelling or a Dental Abscess
Swelling around a tooth or gum should be taken seriously, particularly when accompanied by significant pain, fever, a bad taste in the mouth or facial swelling.
These symptoms can sometimes indicate a dental infection.
Dental infections generally require professional treatment. Addressing the underlying problem promptly can prevent the condition from becoming more serious.
If you notice significant swelling or believe you may have a dental abscess, contact a dentist as soon as possible.
What If a Tooth Gets Knocked Out?
A knocked-out permanent tooth is a true dental emergency, and time can be extremely important.
Pick the tooth up carefully by the crown rather than the root. Avoid scrubbing or damaging the root surface. If possible, contact a dentist immediately for instructions and emergency treatment.
The sooner a knocked-out tooth receives professional attention, the better the opportunity may be to successfully treat the injury.
Lost Fillings and Crowns
Losing a filling or crown may not always cause immediate pain, but the tooth underneath can become sensitive and vulnerable to additional damage.
Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods on that side of your mouth and contact your dentist to determine how quickly the restoration should be repaired or replaced.
Don’t assume that because the tooth doesn’t hurt, it can safely be ignored.
Should You Go to the Dentist or Emergency Room?
For most problems involving a tooth, filling, crown or other dental restoration, a dentist is generally best equipped to diagnose and treat the underlying dental problem.
However, certain situations require emergency medical attention. Serious facial trauma, uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or rapidly increasing facial or neck swelling may require immediate evaluation at an emergency room or a call to 911.
When you’re uncertain, don’t hesitate to seek appropriate emergency care.
Don’t Wait Until a Toothache Becomes Unbearable
One of the biggest mistakes people make with dental pain is waiting.
A tooth may hurt for a while and then temporarily feel better, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the underlying problem has disappeared. Treating dental problems earlier can often provide more options for repairing and preserving the tooth.
Even if you’ve put off going to the dentist for a long time, getting an examination is the first step toward determining what’s happening and what can be done about it.
Emergency Dental Care in Apopka, FL
If you’re experiencing a toothache, broken tooth, swelling or another dental problem that needs prompt attention, contact Cohil Family Dentistry in Apopka, Florida.
Dr. Kirk K. Cohil has been providing dental care to the Apopka community for more than two decades and offers comprehensive treatment ranging from routine and restorative dentistry to crowns, root canals, extractions and dental implants.
Our office serves patients from Apopka, Longwood, Wekiva Springs, Altamonte Springs, Maitland and surrounding Central Florida communities.
Need an Emergency Dentist in Apopka?
Don’t spend another day wondering whether your dental problem is going to get worse.
Call Cohil Family Dentistry at 407-889-9682 to speak with our office about your dental emergency or to schedule an appointment.
Cohil Family Dentistry
2525 E. Semoran Blvd.
Apopka, FL 32703
Call today: (407) 889-9682
Experience the difference that personalized care, advanced dentistry, and a commitment to excellence can make. Discover why so many local families trust Cohil Family Dentistry when searching for the best Apopka dentist.
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Located in Apopka, Florida. Call today for an appointment (407) 889-9682.
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Educational FAQ About Dental Emergencies
The following educational FAQ answers common questions about dental emergencies, tooth pain, broken teeth, infections and when to seek emergency dental care in Apopka, Florida.
How do I know if my toothache is a dental emergency?
A mild toothache may not always require immediate treatment, but severe, persistent or worsening pain should be evaluated by a dentist. Pain accompanied by swelling, fever, a bad taste in the mouth or sensitivity that does not go away may indicate an infection or another dental problem that needs prompt attention.
Can a dental infection go away on its own?
A dental infection generally will not resolve permanently without treating the source of the infection. Symptoms may temporarily improve, but the underlying problem can remain. If you suspect an abscess or dental infection, contact a dentist for an examination and appropriate treatment.
What should I do if I break or crack a tooth?
Rinse your mouth gently with warm water and avoid chewing on the damaged tooth. If swelling occurs, a cold compress placed on the outside of the face may help. Contact your dentist as soon as possible so the tooth can be evaluated.
Is a lost filling or crown considered a dental emergency?
A lost filling or crown may not always require immediate emergency treatment, but it should not be ignored. The exposed tooth can become sensitive and may be more susceptible to additional damage. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and contact your dentist for advice.
What should I do with a knocked-out permanent tooth?
Handle the tooth by the crown rather than the root. If it is dirty, gently rinse it without scrubbing. Seek dental care immediately. A knocked-out permanent tooth is time-sensitive, and receiving professional treatment quickly may improve the possibility of saving the tooth.
When does facial swelling require immediate medical attention?
Dental-related swelling should be evaluated promptly. If swelling is rapidly increasing or is accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing, severe illness, or swelling extending into the face or neck, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Should I go to an emergency dentist or a hospital emergency room?
Most problems involving teeth, fillings, crowns and toothaches are best evaluated by a dentist. However, serious facial trauma, uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or rapidly spreading facial or neck swelling may require immediate medical attention at an emergency room.
Can an emergency dentist save a damaged tooth?
In many cases, yes. Depending on the cause and extent of the damage, treatments such as a filling, dental crown or root canal may allow the natural tooth to be preserved. If the tooth cannot be saved, your dentist can discuss extraction and tooth-replacement options.
How can I reduce my risk of a dental emergency?
Regular dental examinations can help identify cavities, weakened fillings, cracks and other problems before they become emergencies. Wearing a mouthguard during sports, avoiding chewing ice or extremely hard foods, and maintaining good brushing and flossing habits can also reduce the risk of unexpected dental problems.