Emergency Dentistry
Affordable Dentistry in SE Calgary | Forest Lawn Dental Centre
Trusted Emergency Dentist in SE Calgary
Accidents involving sports or other injuries can cause dental emergencies that require attention as soon as possible. Dental emergencies come in all shapes and sizes, from toothaches and facial swelling to broken teeth and lost crowns. In an emergency, it is best to have the affected area treated by a professional as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Forest Lawn Dental Centre has experience handling dental emergencies in SE Calgary and accepts these issues and more during regular business hours. We do our best to accommodate emergencies for patients of all ages.
Call us if you seek an emergency dentist in SE Calgary.
Common Causes of Dental Emergency
Common causes of dental emergencies often stem from sudden and severe dental issues that require immediate attention. Usually triggered by untreated cavities or infections, toothaches can escalate into emergencies if left unaddressed. Trauma, such as sports injuries or accidents, can lead to chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth. Gum infections and abscesses can also result in excruciating pain and swelling, requiring urgent dental care. Additionally, loose or lost dental restorations, like crowns or fillings, can expose sensitive tooth structures, leading to discomfort and necessitating prompt treatment. Let us look at the causes in depth:
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Painful tooth/toothache: A toothache can be excruciating and may result from various issues, such as dental decay, infection, or a cracked tooth.
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Sensitive tooth/gums: Tooth sensitivity can be caused by exposed tooth roots, worn enamel, or gum recession, leading to discomfort when consuming hot or cold foods and drinks.
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Chipped / broken / loose tooth: Trauma or biting on complex objects can lead to chipped, broken, or loosened teeth, which can cause pain and potential infection if left untreated.
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Lost/knocked out tooth: Accidents, sports injuries, or falls can result in a tooth being knocked out entirely, which requires immediate dental attention to potentially save the tooth.
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Any bleeding: Uncontrolled bleeding in the oral cavity, whether from the gums, tongue, or inside the cheeks, may indicate an injury, infection, or other underlying dental issues that need immediate attention.
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Gum inflammation/swelling: Swollen and inflamed gums can indicate gum infection or disease, which, if not taken up promptly, can lead to more severe dental problems.
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Concerns after trauma/injury: Dental trauma, such as fractures or displacement of teeth, can occur due to accidents or sports injuries, necessitating emergency dental care to prevent long-term damage.
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Loose / broken / missing dental crown: A dental crown that becomes loose, broken, or wholly dislodged can expose the underlying tooth and require immediate repair to protect the tooth's integrity.
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Lost filling: When a dental filling falls out, it exposes the tooth's vulnerable interior, making it susceptible to further damage or infection, necessitating prompt replacement.
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Broken orthodontic braces: Damaged braces can cause discomfort and interfere with orthodontic treatment progress, making it essential to cater to the issue promptly to maintain treatment effectiveness.
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Broken permanent retainer: A broken permanent retainer can lead to misaligning teeth after orthodontic treatment, requiring urgent repair to maintain the results achieved through orthodontic work.
In all these cases, seeking emergency dental services is crucial to address the immediate dental issue and prevent further complications or discomfort. Dentists specializing in emergency care are trained to provide timely assistance and relief for these dental emergencies.
Understanding Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies can arise suddenly in the most unexpected manner, causing discomfort and distress. At Forest Lawn Dental Centre, we understand the urgency of these situations and are here to provide prompt and effective treatment when you need it most. Here's a detailed look at some common dental emergencies:
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Severe toothache: A severe and persistent toothache can indicate various underlying issues, such as dental decay, infection, or trauma. The pain may intensify when biting down or applying pressure to the affected tooth. Immediate dental attention is crucial to determine the cause of the pain and provide appropriate treatment to alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications.
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Knocked-out tooth: When handling a knocked-out tooth, exercise caution by holding it from the crown (top part) and refraining from touching the root. The tooth should be gently rinsed with water without scrubbing or removing any tissue fragments if the tooth is soiled. If feasible, try reinserting the tooth into its socket or placing it in a container filled with milk or saliva to maintain moisture. Seeking immediate dental assistance is paramount for the optimal chance of preserving the tooth.
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Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth: Trauma from accidents, sports injuries, or biting on complex objects can cause teeth to chip, crack, or break. Even minor damage to the tooth structure can lead to discomfort and escalate the risk of further complications, such as infection or decay. Depending on the amount of damage, treatment options may include dental bonding, dental crowns, or root canal therapy to restore the tooth's strength and functionality.
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Lost dental filling or crown: Dental fillings and crowns are used to repair and restore broken teeth. However, they may become loose or dislodged with time due to gradual wear and tear, decay, or trauma. A lost filling can expose the underlying tooth structure, making it vulnerable to further damage and infection. Immediate dental attention is necessary to replace the filling or crown and protect the tooth from additional harm.
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Soft tissue injuries: Injuries to the soft tissues in the mouth, such as the gums, lips, cheeks, or tongue, can occur due to accidents, falls, or biting down on hard objects. These injuries may result in cuts, lacerations, or tears, causing pain, bleeding, and swelling. Proper wound care and prompt dental treatment are essential to control bleeding, prevent infection, and promote healing of the injured tissues.
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Dental abscess: A dental abscess is a bacterial infection that can occur in or around the tooth root, leading to severe pain, swelling, and inflammation. Abscesses may develop due to untreated dental decay, gum disease, or trauma. Without timely treatment, the infection can grow and spread to surrounding tissues and may also enter the bloodstream, causing systemic complications. Drainage of the abscess and antibiotic therapy sessions are often necessary to resolve the infection and alleviate symptoms.
At Forest Lawn Dental Centre, our experienced team is equipped to handle a number of dental emergencies with skill and compassion. If you're experiencing a dental emergency, don't hesitate to contact us for prompt and reliable care.
Scared of Dental Procedures? Try Sedation Options!
Dental anxiety is a genuine concern for a lot of patients. If you, too, are scared of visiting your dentist, we can help relieve your anxiety. With sedation dentistry, you will be relaxed and remain calm during your dental procedure. Sedation dentistry can be administered in 2 ways:
✔ Oral sedation: This involves taking medication by mouth before your appointment to induce relaxation. It's a simple, effective way to alleviate fear and make your dental visit more comfortable.
✔ IV Sedation: Intravenous sedation allows for more profound relaxation and is administered directly into the bloodstream, ensuring rapid and precise effects. It's an excellent choice for those with severe dental phobia or for more complex procedures.
Based on your medical history, condition, and extent of the anxiety, we will help you choose the option that works best for you.
How to Deal with Common Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies can come in many different forms, and you want to be sure you get the necessary treatment when one occurs. A speedy treatment can help preserve your injured or damaged teeth, help prevent further damage and preserve your smile. If you are experiencing severe dental pain or problems, you may need to see an emergency dental service provider in SE Calgary. The following are some common dental emergencies and how you should respond if they occur to you:
✔ Toothaches: Aching teeth or tooth pain can often indicate infection. You should thoroughly clean the area by rinsing your mouth with warm water and using floss to remove any food particles. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth or cheek to ease pain and help with swelling. Be sure to see your dentist as soon as possible.
✔ Knocked-out tooth: If you can, retrieve the tooth and wash off the root using water. Do not scrub it or remove any tissue fragments. Attempt to put the tooth back in place, but do not force it. If you cannot place the tooth back in the socket, put the tooth in a small container of milk. Be sure to seek immediate attention from your dentist. Knocked-out teeth have the best chance of being saved if a dentist sees the patient within an hour.
✔ Chipped or broken tooth: If possible, save any pieces of the tooth. Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply gauze to the area if bleeding occurs. Use a cold compress to reduce pain and swelling, then see your dentist as soon as possible.
✔ Lost fillings or crowns: A lost filling can lead to an infection if not treated soon after. Be sure to see your dentist as quickly as possible. A lost crown will need to be reattached. Save the crown and bring it when you see an emergency dental service provider in Calgary.
✔ Partially dislodged tooth: See your dentist right away. You can temporarily relieve pain using a cold compress or an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand you may have many questions regarding dental emergencies in SE Calgary. That’s why we have compiled some common questions and tried to answer them for your convenience. If you have other concerns, speak to a team member.
How Long Does It Take to Treat a Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Tooth?
Typically, an examination takes about 30-40 minutes. Based on the assessment, we will decide on the best procedure for your situation. Tooth filling can be done in 40 minutes to 2 hours. Veneers can take 2-3 hours, a crown may take 3-4 hours, while root canal treatment requires 1.5-3 hours.
I Have a Severe Toothache. What Should I Do?
If you are experiencing an unbearable toothache, visit your nearest dentist and get an examination done. Once the reason for the toothache is unearthed, several treatment options can be suggested, including having antibiotics or getting a tooth extraction. If the nerve is infected, you will require a root canal treatment.
Does a Soft Tissue Injury Take Too Long to Heal?
The time taken for a soft tissue injury to heal depends entirely on the extent of the damage. Our mouth contains many blood vessels, making the healing process quicker. Some injuries may heal independently, but more significant cuts require stitches and antibiotics for effective treatment and faster healing.
Is It Necessary to Get My Wisdom Tooth Extracted?
While extracting a wisdom tooth is unnecessary, it is in your best interest to remove it if you are going through excessive pain and discomfort. We offer emergency tooth extractions, so you don’t have to suffer too long.
Visit SE Calgary’s Trusted Emergency Dentistry Service Provider
Have you suffered a dental injury, or are you experiencing significant dental pain? Then, it would be best to see an emergency dentist in SE Calgary immediately. At Forest Lawn Dental Centre, we are here to help you take care of the problem quickly. Our friendly, compassionate and gentle staff will help ease your mind while completing your treatment. Contact Forest Lawn Dental Centre for a dental emergency in SE Calgary, including Applewood Park, Marlborough, Marlborough Park, Penbrook, Vista Heights, Temple, Dover Glen, Belvedere, Sunridge, Rundle, Pineridge, Monterey Park, Abby Dale, Lynwood, Valleyfield, Millican, Foothills, and Chestermere.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies can be distressing, but many can be avoided with proactive care. Here are essential tips to help you prevent dental issues and maintain a healthy smile.
✔ Oral hygiene tips: Maintaining impeccable oral hygiene is crucial in preventing emergencies. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth. Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can further help reduce bacteria that lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Regularly replacing your toothbrush every three to four months is vital to ensure effective cleaning.
✔ Regular check-ups: Regular dental check-ups are vital in preventing emergencies. Schedule visits with your dentist every six months to catch potential problems early. During these visits, your dentist will conduct thorough examinations and cleanings, addressing any issues before they escalate into emergencies. Regular check-ups also allow your dentist to monitor the health of your gums and teeth, ensuring timely intervention if necessary.
✔ Avoid harmful habits: Be mindful of habits that can damage your teeth, such as chewing on hard objects like pens or ice. Avoid using your teeth as tools for opening packages or bottles. Additionally, reduce your intake of sugary snacks and drinks, which can contribute to cavities and decay.
✔ Wear protective gear: A mouthguard is essential if you play contact sports. A mouthguard can protect your teeth from injury during physical activities and reduce the risk of damage to your teeth and gums
Adhering to these preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of dental emergencies. At Forest Lawn Dental Centre, we are committed to helping you maintain your oral health and prevent emergencies. For more tips or to schedule your next check-up, contact us today!
Why Choose Forest Lawn Dental Centre for Emergency Dental Issues?
When a dental emergency strikes, you need a team you can trust to provide prompt, expert care. At Forest Lawn Dental Centre, we understand the urgency of dental emergencies and are here to offer immediate assistance with high professionalism.
✔ Experienced dentists: Our team of skilled and experienced dentists has a proven track record of handling a wide range of dental emergencies. Whether you're dealing with a sudden toothache, a broken tooth, or any other urgent dental issue, you can count on our expertise to provide effective and efficient treatment.
✔ Quick response and flexible scheduling: We know dental emergencies don’t wait for a convenient time, so we offer flexible scheduling and prioritize emergency cases. Our commitment is to provide same-day care whenever possible so you can get the relief you need without delay.
✔ Comprehensive care: From initial diagnosis to treatment and follow-up, we provide comprehensive care to address your emergency dental needs. Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest technology, ensuring you receive top-quality care in a comfortable environment.
✔ Compassionate and supportive team: Dealing with a dental emergency can be stressful, but our compassionate and supportive team is here to help you every step of the way. We take the time to explain your treatment options and ensure you feel comfortable and informed throughout the process.
When you need an emergency dentist in SE Calgary, choose Forest Lawn Dental Centre for experienced, reliable, and compassionate care. Your smile’s health and your peace of mind are our top priorities.