Dr. Glenn LeSueur earned his DDS from the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of the University of Southern California and serves patients throughout Mesa and nearby East Valley communities. His continuing education includes training at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies.
Signs You May Need Emergency Dental Care
A dental emergency usually involves severe pain, active infection, trauma, bleeding, swelling, or a tooth at risk of being lost. You should call a dentist promptly if you have:
- A knocked-out tooth: Time matters. Keep the tooth moist and seek dental care right away.
- A broken or cracked tooth: A fracture can expose the inner tooth to bacteria and sensitivity.
- Severe tooth pain: Intense or persistent pain may point to deep decay, infection, or nerve involvement.
- Swelling in the gums, face, or jaw: Swelling can be linked to infection and should be checked quickly.
- A dental abscess: A pimple-like bump, drainage, bad taste, fever, or facial swelling may signal infection.
- Bleeding that will not stop: Ongoing bleeding after an injury needs urgent attention.
- Lost dental work with pain: A lost crown, bridge, or filling can leave the tooth vulnerable.
What Isn’t Usually a Dental Emergency?
Some dental concerns may not require same-day treatment, but they still need attention. Mild sensitivity, a small chip without pain, a dull ache that comes and goes, or a loose filling without discomfort may be handled during a regular appointment.
Still, it’s better to call than guess. The dental team can help you decide how soon you should be seen based on your symptoms.
What to Do Before You Arrive
While you are waiting to be seen, a few simple steps can help protect the tooth and reduce discomfort, depending on the type of dental emergency:
- For a knocked-out tooth: Rinse it gently with water, but do not scrub the root. Try to place it back in the socket if you can, or keep it in milk or saliva until you arrive.
- For swelling: Use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek to help reduce discomfort.
- For a broken tooth: Save any pieces and rinse your mouth with warm water.
- For a possible abscess: Do not try to drain it or repair the tooth at home. Call the dentist for guidance as soon as possible.
Emergency Dental Help in Mesa
Dental emergencies can worsen quickly without treatment. Drs of Smiles in Mesa, AZ, can help you decide what to do next. Contact us or call 480-834-6991 for guidance from Dr. Glenn LeSueur and our team.