Dr. Duane Marshall provides emergency dental care in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. If you experience any type of dental emergency, please call Mountain View Dentistry at 505-867-1442 as soon as possible. Our team will make arrangements for you to come in and receive the treatment you need to regain a healthy and aesthetic smile.
What is a Dental Emergency?
Dental emergencies can strike when you least expect them, often causing discomfort and anxiety. Understanding what constitutes a dental emergency and why timely care is crucial can help you take appropriate action and prevent complications.
A dental emergency refers to any situation involving your teeth, gums or mouth that requires immediate attention from our dentist to resolve. Unlike routine dental issues, emergencies arise suddenly, often accompanied by severe pain, swelling or trauma. Some common dental emergencies include:
- Severe, persistent toothaches: These may indicate deep decay or infection requiring urgent care.
- Lost dental restorations: If you lose a filling or crown, it is important to address this quickly to avoid further damage or infection.
- Soft tissue injuries: Cuts or lacerations to your tongue, cheeks, lips or gums can lead to significant bleeding and require immediate care.
- Cracked, fractured or broken teeth: These injuries can affect both the appearance and functionality of your teeth and may expose you to further complications if not treated swiftly.
- Partially or fully knocked-out tooth: This is one of the most serious dental emergencies. Prompt treatment within an hour can potentially save the tooth.
Why Receive Emergency Dental Care
Receiving prompt dental care in emergencies is vital for several reasons. First, it can significantly alleviate pain, which is often the most immediate concern for patients. Second, emergency dental care prevents further damage. For instance, a lost filling or crown leaves your tooth exposed to potential decay or structural damage. Similarly, addressing a knocked-out tooth promptly increases the chances of successful reimplantation.
Furthermore, some dental emergencies, such as infections, can have broader health implications if left untreated. An untreated infection can spread, leading to more serious health issues, including potentially life-threatening conditions.
Our dentist and team prioritize your urgent needs. If you face any of the conditions mentioned or suspect a dental emergency, do not hesitate to contact us. Our trained professionals are prepared to provide you with the necessary care and guide you on how to manage your dental health until you can reach our office.
For severe cases involving trauma to the head or neck, please call 911 or seek immediate attention from an emergency room or your general physician, even if your dental health is also affected.
Schedule Your Emergency Appointment
For more information or to discuss specific concerns, please call or visit our office. We are here to assist you in maintaining optimal oral health and handling emergencies with prompt, compassionate care.