4 examples of dental emergencies that may require specialty care at our office

Dental emergencies can be a source of confusion. Unlike some categories of dental services, we at Soft Touch Endodontics cannot say that emergencies are “A, B, and C.” It is not that definitive. There can be a lot of situations and conditions that require emergency care. Due to the nature of what endodontists like Dr. Darlene Davis treat, our team in Suwanee, Georgia, is often called upon to relieve the discomfort and other symptoms associated with these emergent conditions. Below, we have highlighted four examples of circumstances or conditions that could require emergency care at our specialty office. 

No. 1: Untreated tooth decay

Tooth decay is a progressive and destructive condition. It does not go away on its own. It only progresses and becomes worse. You will likely need endodontic care when the decay reaches the innermost tooth structure and inflames or infects the pulp. Our endodontist has special and advanced training beyond dental school in diagnosing, treating, and managing conditions that affect the pulp tissues. 

No. 2: Abscesses 

Swelling can be a sign of a bacterial infection or abscess. Your gums may appear swollen. If the infection spreads to other parts of your mouth and face, you may have noticeably puffy cheeks. It is essential for endodontists like Dr. Davis to treat abscesses promptly. Without treatment, the infection can spread and result in a serious systemic inflammatory response. Symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, fever, nausea and vomiting, severe headache, labored breathing, and confusion can indicate that the infection has spread and may even require medical treatment at the nearest hospital ER. 

No. 3: Cracked teeth 

Any time bacteria penetrates and inflames or infects the inner tooth structure, endodontic services may be necessary to protect your health and preserve the affected teeth. Cracks or fractures come in lots of different forms. Certain kinds may allow harmful bacteria to enter the deeper layers of the tooth. Depending on the nature and severity of the breakage, Dr. Davis may be able to conserve the tooth with non-surgical root canal therapy or through other surgical means – such as root-end resection or apicoectomy. 

No. 4: Dislodged or knocked-out teeth 

We know that accidents happen at the most inconvenient of times. We also understand that injuries on the field, rink, court, diamond, or pitch are common. Dr. Davis can advise on steps to take should a tooth be partially or fully dislodged from its socket due to a fall or blows to the face while participating in organized sports activities or other adventures. What you do in the minutes immediately following the accident can significantly help or hamper her ability to replant a tooth, especially one that is knocked out or fully avulsed. Yes, teeth forced out of their sockets are not always “goners” due to our extensive and highly specialized emergency endodontic care at the Office of Soft Touch Endodontics. 

Do not wait if you suspect something is wrong with your or a family member’s tooth. Contact our Suwanee, GA team today at (770) 212-9771.

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