A dental emergency can happen when you least expect it, causing pain, discomfort, and potential long-term damage if not treated quickly. But how do you know if your situation requires urgent care? Russo Family Dentistry & Aesthetics provides emergency dental care to help you get fast and effective treatment when you need it most.

Common Dental Emergencies That Require Immediate Attention

Not every dental issue is an emergency, but some conditions demand urgent care. Here are the top dental emergencies that should never be ignored:

1. Severe Tooth Pain That Won’t Go Away

If you experience persistent, intense tooth pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain relievers, it could indicate an underlying issue such as:

• A deep cavity or infection
• A fractured tooth
• Gum disease or an abscess

Ignoring severe tooth pain can lead to complications, including infections that spread to other parts of the body.

2. Knocked-Out or Loose Teeth Due To Injury

If your tooth is completely knocked out, acting quickly is crucial for saving it. Here’s what to do before reaching an emergency dentist:

• Pick up the tooth by the crown (avoid touching the root).
• Rinse it gently with water if dirty, but do not scrub.
• Try to place it back in the socket or store it in milk or saliva until you get professional care.

3. Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth

While minor chips may not be emergencies, a cracked or broken tooth can expose nerves, causing severe pain and potential infection. Seek emergency dental treatment if:

• The crack is deep and painful
• A large portion of the tooth is missing
• There’s excessive bleeding or swelling

4. Lost Fillings or Crowns

Fillings and crowns protect your teeth, and when they fall out, the exposed tooth becomes vulnerable to decay and sensitivity. If you lose a filling or crown, contact Russo Family Dentistry & Aesthetics immediately to prevent further damage.

5. Swollen Gums or Dental Abscesses

A dental abscess is a painful infection that forms at the root of a tooth or in the gum tissue. Symptoms include:

• Intense pain and swelling
• A pimple-like bump on the gums
• Fever and difficulty swallowing

Abscesses require immediate dental attention to prevent the infection from spreading to the jaw or bloodstream.

6. Soft Tissue Injuries: Bleeding Gums, Lips, Or Tongue

Cuts or injuries to the gums, tongue, or inside of the mouth can lead to significant bleeding. If the bleeding doesn’t stop after applying gentle pressure for 10 minutes, seek emergency dental care.

What To Expect During An Emergency Dental Visit

The team at Russo Family Dentistry & Aesthetics provides fast and effective emergency dental care to relieve pain and restore your smile. During your visit, you can expect:

• Immediate Assessment: We will diagnose the issue using advanced imaging and a comprehensive oral examination.
• Pain Management: Our priority is to alleviate discomfort and provide quick relief.
• Customized Treatment Plan: Whether you need a filling, crown, root canal, or other treatment, we’ll provide expert care.
• Aftercare Guidance: Clear instructions for recovery and tips to prevent future emergencies.

Preventing Dental Emergencies: Proactive Care Tips

While some dental emergencies are unavoidable, you can reduce the risk by:

• Brushing and flossing daily to maintain oral health
• Wearing a mouthguard during sports or high-impact activities
• Avoiding chewing hard objects like ice, pens, or popcorn kernels
• Keeping up with regular dental checkups to catch issues early

Need Emergency Dental Care in Metairie? Contact Russo Family Dentistry & Aesthetics Today!

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency don’t wait—Contact Russo Family Dentistry & Aesthetics to receive prompt, expert care when you need it most. Whether it’s severe tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, or a lost filling, our team is ready to help.