Emergency Dental Treatment

Emergency dentistry can involve many different forms of dental care. What does this entail? We have compiled a short list of emergency dental items and the likely treatment required.

The classic dental emergency is severe tooth pain which is constant, throbbing, non relieved by pain killers, tender to pressure and touch. Often this is a term called 'irreversible pulpitis' and the likely treatment is root canal treatment of the tooth. If this is the case, the emergency phase will involve removing the inflamed pulp tissue from inside the tooth and placing an anti bacterial dressing to relieve the symptoms. If there is adequate time, often the root canal treatment can be completed in one session depending on the level of infection, if any is present.

A dental infection will typically involve swelling of the tissues which will be visible extra or intra orally (outside or inside the mouth). The cause of the infection may be from a number of sources including the gums, roots of the teeth, wisdom teeth or soft tissues. It is important to identify the source and drain the infection as soon as possible. A course of anti biotics is often required. It may not be possible to undergo any prolonged treatment if an infection is present.

If a tooth fractures and the pulp (nerve) is not exposed, then often a routine filling is the treatment of choice. In many instances, a temporary cover will be placed to protect the tooth and an appointment booked to restore the tooth at a later date.

It is important to keep the crown if it has become unstuck and present it to the dentist at the emergency visit. If it is simply the glue that has failed, then re cementing the crown is the treatment of choice. If for whatever reason the crown cannot be cemented, then the tooth will be protected with a temporary crown or cover for definitive treatment at a later date.

If you have a dental emergency, please call us immediately. You will be seen on the day during our normal working hours. Outside of our working hours, please e mail info@progressivedentistry.co.uk for immediate advice.