The Most Common Dental Emergencies

Core Dentistry • February 21, 2023

Dental emergencies are more common than you may think. Here's a quick look at the most common emergencies and how to treat them.

Did you know that you should be visiting your local dentist at least twice per year? That's right, you should have two routine check-up visits to make sure your teeth are healthy. This can help you prevent future dental emergencies.

Sometimes, however, things happen between appointments that call for an extra visit. If you need emergency dentistry, you can't just wait for your next appointment! But how do you know when you're experiencing an emergency?

We're here to talk about some of the most common dental emergencies that people experience so you can identify them. Read on to learn more.

Chipped or Broken Teeth

There are many things that can cause a chipped or broken tooth, some more serious than others.

Someone may end up with trauma to their face which then results in a broken or chipped tooth from a fall or hit. They may have an oral piercing or bite something hard. They may even chip a tooth on another tooth due to poor alignment.

Regardless of what caused the chipped or broken tooth, it's a dental emergency.

Chipped and cracked teeth may not seem serious, especially if the chips or cracks are so small that they're unnoticeable to the eye. Unfortunately, they ruin the integrity of the tooth and they can allow bacteria to get in which will cause cavities.

If the chip is visible, it's also an aesthetic issue.

If you chip or break a tooth, you should rinse your mouth with warm water and hold a piece of gauze to the tooth to stop the bleeding. You should also apply a warm compress. Contact an emergency dentistry professional who can fix your tooth as soon as possible to prevent future damage.

Knocked-Out Teeth

Once you have a complete set of adult teeth, you shouldn't be losing any more. If a tooth falls out (or is knocked out), that's a dental emergency.

If you can find the tooth, rinse off the root and hold it by the crown. Carefully put the tooth back in place. In some cases, this is enough to repair the tooth (but you should still see a dentist as soon as possible).

If you can't get it back in place, place it in a cup of water and bring it with you for emergency dental treatment. The dentist may be able to put it back. If not, they can go over your alternative options.

Broken Orthodontics

Metal braces can be irritating, but they're one of the best methods for straightening your teeth. Unfortunately, in rare cases, the metal wires can break and cause problems.

Broken orthodontic wires are technically a dental emergency. You can wait until your local dentist's office is open to take care of them, but you don't want to leave them alone for too long.

They can damage your gums and slow down your orthodontic treatment. The wires have to be in place in order to move your teeth.

Dental Abscess

A dental abscess can be incredibly dangerous.

An abscess is an infection in the mouth. It can spread throughout the mouth and even throughout the rest of your body. A dental abscess can make you incredibly sick.

If you notice something that looks like a cyst in your mouth, it's likely a dental abscess. Do not attempt to pop or lance it. Contact a dentist who specializes in emergency treatments right away.

In the meantime, rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean it and relieve some inflammation. Use a cold compress to further reduce inflammation until you're able to visit a dentist.

Lost Crown or Filling

When you have a cavity or another type of tooth damage, a crown or filling can restore your tooth and make it functional again. Ideally, a crown or filling will stay in place forever. In reality, it may only last around ten years.

So what happens if a crown or filling falls out?

This isn't something you need to deal with immediately, but you should contact your dentist to set up an appointment as soon as possible (preferably within the next few days). Without the crown or filling, your natural tooth is exposed.

Repairing the filling or crown is an easy task, so don't worry. You'll be as good as new in no time.

Extreme Tooth Pain

So what if you don't know what's wrong, but you're experiencing extreme oral pain? That's still a dental emergency.

If you have a toothache that's making it difficult for you to speak or eat, dentists consider it an emergency situation. It can get in the way of your health and it may be indicative of a serious dental health problem.

Contact your local emergency dentist right away and they should be able to set you up with an appointment. In the meantime, use a cool compress and an anti-inflammatory to relieve your pain. Avoid doing anything that could exacerbate the problem.

It's possible that your tooth pain is the result of something minor like something stuck between your teeth, but it's always better to be safe rather than sorry.

Dental Emergencies Are Serious

If you experience one of these dental emergencies, don't hesitate to call your local dentist. They should be able to treat you quickly. A dental emergency can turn into a physical health problem before you know it, so don't let it linger.

Are you looking for a dentist in Fort Mill, SC for routine care or emergency dentistry? At CORE dentistry, our dentists are here to help.

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How Teeth Whitening Can Brighten Your Smile for Special Occasions

By Core Dentistry • February 26, 2025

It's an unfortunate fact that all kinds of factors can lead to unsightly yellow teeth . Are you wondering what can be done to quickly upgrade your smile? Teeth whitening services can be the perfect solution. Whether it's for a wedding, graduation, or an important work event, a bright smile can leave a great impression. With the right teeth whitening solutions, you can achieve a stunning smile makeover just in time for your special occasion. Read on to learn more about it. The Vital Importance of a Bright Smile A whiter smile can make a vast difference in how people perceive you. White teeth are often associated with the following: Good health Confidence Success When you feel good about your smile, you naturally exude more self-confidence. This can help in social settings, professional environments, and even during photographs that capture your special moments. Cosmetic dental services , such as dental whitening treatments, can give you the smile you have always wanted. A white smile is more than just a surface-level improvement; it can also have great psychological benefits. Many people feel more outgoing and sociable when they aren't self-conscious about their teeth. Smiling more often can: Improve mood Reduce stress Make you appear more approachable A great smile can positively impact personal relationships , career opportunities, and first impressions, making it a valuable asset in various aspects of life. How Teeth Whitening Works Teeth whitening is a simple yet amazing way to get rid of stains and discoloration. Over time, certain foods, drinks, and habits can cause teeth to lose their brightness. Common culprits include: Coffee Tea Red wine Tobacco use Teeth whitening solutions help to lift these stains, leaving your teeth several shades whiter. While over-the-counter products may provide some improvement, they often take weeks to show any effect. Professional dental whitening treatments, like those offered at Core Dentistry , use stronger whitening agents that deliver faster and longer-lasting results. There are several kinds of teeth whitening treatments to choose from, including: In-office whitening Take-home whitening kits Over-the-counter products In-office treatments are done by dental experts and often provide the most dramatic results in the shortest amount of time. Take-home kits, on the other hand, involve using custom-made trays and professional-grade whitening gel, allowing patients to whiten their teeth at their own pace. Over-the-counter products like whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels can offer mild improvements but are generally not as effective as professional treatments. Undeniable Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening One of the most phenomenal benefits of professional teeth whitening is the speed of results. In-office whitening treatments can make your teeth several shades lighter in just one visit. Another advantage is the long-lasting effects. Professional whitening lasts much longer compared to at-home kits, especially when you maintain good oral hygiene. Safety is another major benefit, as a trained dentist ensures that your gums and teeth are protected during the procedure. Plus, professional whitening allows for a customized treatment plan . Your dentist can fine-tune the strength of the whitening agent to suit your needs. Remember, a whiter smile can elevate your confidence like nothing else. It makes you feel more attractive and self-assured in social and professional settings. Beyond aesthetics, professional whitening can also encourage better oral hygiene. When people invest in their smiles, they tend to take better care of their teeth by brushing, flossing, and attending regular dental check-ups. This can lead to improved overarching dental health, reducing the risk of: Cavities Gum disease Other oral issues Additionally, professional whitening can remove stubborn stains that regular brushing and over-the-counter products may not be able to tackle. When to Whiten Your Teeth Before a Special Occasion Timing is important when planning your smile makeover. If you have an upcoming event, it is best to schedule your teeth whitening treatment at least one to two weeks in advance. This allows any minor sensitivity to subside and ensures you get the best results. If you opt for at-home whitening, you need to give yourself more time as it takes longer to see noticeable changes. Planning ahead ensures your smile looks its best for your special day. It is also important to consider any dental work you may need before whitening your teeth. Do you have cavities, gum disease, or other oral health issues? If so, these should be addressed before undergoing a whitening treatment. Your dentist can help assess your teeth and provide the best course of action to ensure that you achieve optimal results. Also, if you have dental restorations like crowns or fillings, it's important to note that these materials respond differently to the treatment. Maintaining Your White Smile for the Long Haul After your teeth whitening treatment, you have to take care of your teeth if you want them to retain their brightness. Avoiding foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sauces can help preserve your results. Maintain good oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, flossing, and using a dependable toothpaste . Consistent dental check-ups and cleanings also help support your white smile. Using a straw when drinking dark beverages can reduce contact with your teeth, thereby shrinking the chances of staining. Another tip for maintaining your white smile is to rinse your mouth with water after consuming staining foods or beverages. This helps prevent pigments from settling into the enamel. You may also consider using a whitening mouthwash to enhance your results. If you notice that your teeth are beginning to stain again over time, touch-up treatments may be recommended by your dentist to keep your smile bright. Keeping up with professional cleanings and avoiding habits like smoking can also contribute to long-lasting results. It's Time to Take Advantage of Dependable Teeth Whitening Services With proper teeth whitening services , you can have an amazing smile in no time. Core Dentistry provides high-quality cosmetic dental services to help you get the smile you've always wanted. Their dental whitening treatments are safe, effective, and customized. Our team members not only have medical degrees, but they're also members of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Clear Aligners, and more. Don't wait to schedule a teeth whitening appointment with Core Dentistry today.