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Dental Abscess: Why It’s a Dangerous Emergency

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It is easy to dismiss a toothache as something that could wait for your next dental appointment, but a dental abscess can escalate quickly into a life-threatening emergency. If your toothache is throbbing and accompanied by swelling in the jaw, it might be more serious than you think. A dental abscess requires emergency dental care in Indianapolis, IN.

What Is a Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that develops due to a bacterial infection. It typically forms around a tooth’s root or soft tissue. These abscesses start in one area but can spread quickly, causing serious complications.

Infections in the mouth can spread to the jaw, sinus cavities, or bloodstream, causing disease in the bone, sinuses, and even vital organs such as the heart and brain. Infections in the bloodstream can lead to sepsis, a systemic and potentially life-threatening illness.

What Are the Symptoms of a Dental Abscess?

The symptoms of a dental abscess include:

Constant and painful throbbing around the tooth that can spread to the jaw, ear, or neck

  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Fever
  • Swelling in the face, cheek, or neck
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the jaw or neck
  • A foul odor from the mouth

You may experience a salty or foul taste in your mouth. This could indicate the abscess rupture, which could spread the bacteria.

What Causes a Dental Abscess?

The cause is usually a chip, hole, or crack in a tooth’s enamel. This allows bacteria in the mouth to enter the pulp inside the tooth and spread from there.

When Is a Dental Abscess an Emergency?

If you suspect you have a dental abscess, immediately contact your emergency dentist in Indianapolis, IN, and make an appointment to get treatment. Because of the potential complications, a dental abscess is always a dental emergency.

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The Ultimate Dental Emergency First Aid Kit: What You Need to Have on Hand

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Dental emergencies happen unexpectedly, just like a medical emergency. Chances are, you have at least a few items at home for that unanticipated cut or fall, so why wouldn’t you keep a first aid kit for dental emergencies, too? Consider some essential things you need handy for that unplanned dental crisis that requires an emergency dentist in Indianapolis, IN, or elsewhere.

What Is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is anything affecting your mouth that requires immediate attention. Some examples of dental emergencies include:

  • Severe toothache
  • Knocked out tooth
  • Fractured tooth
  • Trauma to the mouth
  • Swelling or pain around a tooth or in your jaw
  • Discharge from a tooth or soft tissue
  • Bleeding in the mouth that won’t stop
  • Lost or broken filling, bridge, denture, or restoration
  • Something stuck in or between teeth

Any of these problems requires you to call your emergency dentist right away.

What to Have in Your Dental Emergency Kit

When stocking your dental emergency kit, a great place to start is with a pain reliever.

OTC Pain Reliever

Choose an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Most dental emergencies are painful, so this will likely be necessary. You might also stock an anesthetic gel to temporarily relieve the problem area.

Cleaning Tools

You’ll also want to clear the area of blood and debris. This should include gauze squares, cotton balls, and swabs. If there is bleeding, you can bite down on these, too.

Dental Wax

Use dental wax to cover any sharp areas on teeth or orthodontic appliances. This will keep them from causing further damage to the mouth.

These are just a few staple items you need. Over time, you can add more to your kit, such as disposable gloves, a dental mirror, and even temporary dental filling material.

Also, be sure to include the contact information for your emergency dentist in Indianapolis, IN, in the kit so you won’t have to look for it.

A person with short hair uses their hand to check or touch their teeth, appearing to be in discomfort or pain.

What to Do If You Break a Tooth

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A broken tooth is a common dental problem that can happen without warning. Maybe you bit into something and felt it crack, or it broke when you fell or took an elbow during your weekend basketball game. However it happens, prompt action will minimize the damage and save your smile.

Immediately After Breaking the Tooth

The first steps after breaking a tooth are critical. Start by assessing the damage. Rinse your mouth out with warm water and look.

Check to see if there is any bleeding. If so, apply direct pressure with clean gauze. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, call your emergency dentist in Indianapolis, IN, immediately to get instructions on what to do.

Also, look for any missing pieces of the tooth. Check inside your mouth first. If possible, avoid swallowing any of the teeth. Also, look around you to see if any flew out of your mouth.

Collect as much of the broken tooth as possible and place the pieces in a sealed container. Take that with you to the dentist.

Manage Pain

A broken tooth may cause some pain and swelling. Apply a cold compress to the cheek nearest the tooth. You may be able to take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Ask the dentist when you call.

Is a Broken Tooth a Dental Emergency?

A broken tooth is a dental emergency because bacteria can get inside the tooth and cause more damage. It may also enter your bloodstream through the break, affecting your overall health.

So, if you break a tooth, call your emergency dentist in all your emergency dentist in Indianapolis, IN, as soon as you notice. This will allow you to make an appointment to be seen and to discuss ways to restore the tooth.

A man in a sleeveless gray shirt holds his cheeks with both hands and appears to be in discomfort, standing against a plain white background.

What to Do During a Sports-Related Dental Emergency

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Did you know that 13 to 39 percent of all dental injuries occur while playing sports? This type of trauma is often a dental emergency, and doing the right thing right away can be the difference between saving that brilliant smile and losing it.

Immediate First-Aid for Sports-Related Dental Emergencies

Proper first-aid is critical. It gives the emergency dentist in Indianapolis, IN, the best chance of saving a tooth or protecting the patient’s oral health.

Knocked-Out Tooth

If you knock out a tooth, the first step is to find and rinse it under tap water. Try to avoid touching the root of the tooth as you handle it.

Once you have the tooth and it is clean, put it in a small, clean container, preferably with a lid, for safekeeping. You should call the dentist right away. The tooth needs to be put back in within two hours to save it.

Chipped Tooth

The most important thing to remember about a chipped tooth is not to ignore it. Even the smallest of chips or cracks will expand over time. It can also allow bacteria to enter the tooth, which can cause more damage.

Broken Tooth

First aid isn’t as critical for a broken tooth, but it can help keep you more comfortable while you wait to see the emergency dentist. You should:

  • Rinse your mouth out with warm water. Spit the water out.
  • Apply an icepack to your cheek.

If possible, collect any broken pieces and take them with you to your emergency dental appointment.

Apply direct pressure to any bleeding injury using clean gauze. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, contact the dentist or get medical attention.

Preventing sports-related dental emergencies is always the best option. Wear a mouthguard for all contact sports. If you suffer an injury, contact your emergency dentist in Indianapolis, IN, to make an appointment.

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What’s Considered a Dental Emergency?

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Not all dental emergencies are created equal. Some need immediate care within the hour, while others can be treated within a few days. Whatever the case may be, it’s important to get the right treatment quickly for any dental emergency.

If you’re searching for top-of-the-line emergency dental care in Indianapolis, IN, look no further than Indiana Emergency Dental. Whether you’re experiencing pain, bleeding, or any other troubling symptom, our skilled team is here to help.

In this post, we’ll discuss what counts as a true dental emergency.

Cracked Teeth

A cracked tooth can be a serious dental problem. This is especially true if the crack extends through the entire tooth. A cracked tooth is one of the most common dental injuries, usually caused while playing sports or participating in another activity. If this happens to you, call your dentist to discuss next steps.

Bad Toothache

While it’s normal to have some tooth pain from time to time, severe discomfort is something you shouldn’t ignore. If this happens to you, ensure no food is caught between your teeth. If that doesn’t fix the problem, contact your dentist about what to do next. If the pain doesn’t go away, you may need immediate care.

Knocked-Out Tooth

A blow to the face or fall to the floor can knock out a tooth, which means you have a true dental emergency on your hands. Luckily, if you see your dentist within an hour, there’s a good chance of saving your tooth and returning it to its socket.

Dental Abscess

A dental abscess is a sign of an infection. Usually causing severe pain, you’ll need to see your dentist right away. You may need root canal treatment to fix the problem.

Whenever you experience a dental emergency, call the dental experts at Indiana Emergency Dental. We can take away the pain for good! Contact us today to work with the top emergency dentist in Indianapolis, IN.

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When a Dental Emergency Strikes: Indiana Emergency Dental Has You Covered

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Life is full of surprises, but not all of them are pleasant. Dental emergencies can strike at any time, whether it’s a chipped tooth, a sudden toothache, or a knocked-out tooth from an accident. When you’re in pain and need immediate care, Indiana Emergency Dental is here to help. Serving Indianapolis and Bloomington, IN, we specialize in providing fast, reliable emergency dental care when you need it most.

Common Dental Emergencies We Treat

At Indiana Emergency Dental, we’ve seen it all. Here are some of the most common dental emergencies we handle:

  • Toothaches: Sudden or severe tooth pain can be caused by a variety of issues, including cavities, infections, or gum disease. We quickly diagnose the problem and provide relief.
  • Broken or Chipped Teeth: Accidents happen, and when they do, it’s important to address a broken or chipped tooth promptly to prevent further damage.
  • Knocked-Out Teeth: Acting quickly is crucial if you’ve lost a tooth due to trauma. Bring the tooth with you if possible, and we’ll do our best to save it.
  • Abscessed Teeth: Dental abscesses can cause severe pain and swelling and, if untreated, may lead to serious complications. Our team is experienced in treating infections effectively.
  • Lost Fillings or Crowns: A lost filling or crown can expose your tooth to further damage. We provide swift replacements to protect your smile.

Why Choose Indiana Emergency Dental?

Dental emergencies can be stressful, but finding the right care shouldn’t be. Here’s why Indiana Emergency Dental is the go-to choice for patients in Indianapolis and Bloomington:

  • Immediate Appointments: We prioritize emergency cases to ensure you receive the care you need without delay.
  • Experienced Team: Our skilled dentists are trained to handle a wide range of dental emergencies with expertise and compassion.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: With advanced dental technology and modern techniques, we provide top-notch care in a comfortable environment.
  • Convenient Locations: Serving both Indianapolis and Bloomington, we make it easy to access emergency dental care no matter where you are.

How to Handle a Dental Emergency

Knowing what to do in a dental emergency can make a big difference. Here are some quick tips:

  • For a Knocked-Out Tooth: Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root. Rinse it gently and try to place it back in its socket if possible. If not, keep it in milk or a saline solution and bring it with you to our office.
  • For Severe Tooth Pain: Rinse your mouth with warm water and use a cold compress on your cheek to reduce swelling. Avoid taking aspirin as it can thin your blood and worsen bleeding.
  • For a Broken Tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water and save any fragments. Use a cold compress to manage swelling and visit us as soon as possible.

Preventing Future Emergencies

While some dental emergencies are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

  • Maintain regular dental check-ups to address potential issues before they become emergencies.
  • Wear a mouthguard during sports or other physical activities to protect your teeth.
  • Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or popcorn kernels that can damage your teeth.

Don’t Wait—Get the Care You Need Now

When it comes to dental emergencies, time is of the essence. Delaying care can lead to more severe problems and increased pain. That’s why Indiana Emergency Dental is committed to providing prompt, effective treatment to restore your oral health and peace of mind.

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, call us immediately or visit one of our convenient locations in Indianapolis or Bloomington, IN. Let us take care of your dental emergency so you can get back to living your life pain-free.

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At Emergency Dental, Care Doesn’t Have to Be an Emergency

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We put “emergency” in the name of our dental practice for a reason. We want our patients to know that we are there for them during regular business hours and 24-7 throughout the year.

Dr. Ed Garry at Indiana Emergency Dental in Indianapolis, IN, boasts 30 years of experience and is known for his expertise and commitment to oral healthcare.

Care You Can’t Get Elsewhere

When was the last time you had a toothache during regular business hours? And just when does a tooth get knocked out during a rough-and-tumble football game? You can bet it won’t be mid-morning on a weekday, right?

We’re here to help you during those tough times. Our dental professionals and caring hygienists stand ready to answer your questions about an unusual problem, a nagging toothache, or a loose crown.

But we’re also here for you for all the regular checkups of childhood, the cleanings, the braces, the wisdom tooth extractions, and the routine fillings. We’re also there for the crowns, the implants, and the extractions that may come with advanced years.

That’s what “family dentistry” means.

A Full Range of Services Available

Dr. Garry and the team at Indiana Emergency Dental will help your family weather all the seasons and stages of life. We can calm your toddler during his first trip to the dentist. And we’ll be there for your daughter when it’s time to discuss braces, smile enhancement or tooth whitening.

We understand the importance of dazzling smiles and cosmetic dentistry, and we’re committed to helping all our patients retain their healthy teeth until they can introduce us to grandchildren and great-grandchildren. But we can also provide a full set of properly fitted dentures when necessary.

We offer a full range of modern dental care services, including sedation dentistry, state-of-the-art diagnostics, and tooth repair services. Contact us to schedule your appointment.