Dental Emergencies

The Services Your Markham Dentist Offers

Dental Emergency: Toothache

Toothache can be distressing, often a symptom of an underlying issue that needs immediate attention. At smile dental arts centre in Markham, the team understands the urgency of treating toothaches, as they are a symptom of many dental problems, ranging from minor to severe. The dental professionals at the centre are ready to provide effective relief, using advanced tools to determine the cause of pain and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Toothaches can result from a variety of issues, such as tooth decay, infection or even trauma. One of the most common causes is dental cavities, where bacteria erode enamel and its sensitive layers are exposed.

Infections within the tooth or gums can lead to intense pain and need immediate care. An abscessed tooth, where there is pus buil due to bacterial infection, is a condition that can cause pain and even fever in severe cases. At smile dental arts centre the team acts quickly to drain the infection and provide the necessary treatment. Which may include antibiotics or root canal therapy depending on the condition. Smile dental arts centre in Markham is committed to preventing the spread of infection and protecting the patient’s overall health.

Toothache Symptoms

Toothache symptoms can vary, at smile dental arts centre in Markham the dental team recognizes that all toothaches are not the same, we carefully evaluate the specific symptoms a patient may be experiencing. Common symptoms include a sharp pain that happens when biting or chewing, which may indicate a cavity or a cracked tooth. Patients may experience constant pain that exists and persists without stimulation, often a sign of an infection.

In addition to pain, toothache symptoms include sensitivity to cold, hot or sweet foods and drinks. This sensitivity is a signal of enamel erosion that exposes the underlying dentin and nerves. A detailed history of the patient’s symptoms is taken at smile dental arts centre in markham, such as the duration, onset or triggers of sensitivity. By examining these factors, the dental team at smile dental arts centre in Markham can check if the sensitivity is due to enamel wear or a more serious condition such as deep cavities.

Broken Teeth

A broken tooth can vary from a minor chip to a severe fracture that exposes the tooth’s insides. Intervention and action are necessary to prevent damage and to restore the tooth’s function and looks. For minor breaks, the treatment involves cosmetic repairs to repair the shape of the tooth. At smile dental arts centre in Markham, bonding or veneers are used to repair small chips, improving the surface of the tooth in the process. These procedures are quick and are often completed in a single visit, providing relief and restoring the appearance of the tooth.

Types of Broken Teeth

Chipped teeth:

A chipped tooth is often the result of a small part of the enamel breaking off, often due to grinding or impact. Although seeming minor and small it can be the cause of sensitivity and further damage if not fixed immediately. At smile dental arts centre in Markham, bonding or veneers are used to repair the chipped teeth, restoring the functionality of the teeth.

Fractured teeth:

In fractured teeth, the crack extends through the enamel and in severe cases in dentin or pulp. These fractures range from small hairline cracks to significant breaks that may affect the tooth’s structure. Treatment methods for fractured teeth may include using dental crowns or root canal therapy if there is internal damage.

Split teeth:

A split tooth is a severe condition where the tooth is cracked into two segments or parts, often due to decay or trauma. It’s important to immediately address the split tooth, which often involves replacement or extraction using dental implants or bridges, depending on the tooth’s condition.

Broken cusps: a broken cusp happens when a pointed edge in a tooth breaks, usually from biting on something hard. This damage can expose the inside of the tooth and cause discomfort. Smile dental arts centre in Markham fixes broken cusps by placing dental crowns to cover the damaged area, ensuring the functionality of the tooth.

Steps to Take When a Tooth is Broken

When dealing with a broken tooth, appropriate and timely action is necessary to ensure effective treatment. At smile dental arts centre in Markham, the first step is to remain calm, the next step is to manage discomfort or pain. OTC pain relievers such as ibuprofen can alleviate the pain and reduce any swelling if present. Using a cold compress outside of the mouth can also provide some relief. At smile dental arts centre in Markham, we emphasize the avoidance of chewing on the affected side to prevent additional damage. If the inner parts of the tooth are exposed it’s important to avoid cold or hot foods to avoid unnecessary pain.

Immediate Actions for Managing a Broken Tooth

Prompt and immediate action is necessary to minimize the complications. At first try to rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area and remove any debri. Avoid using hot or cold water as these can magnify the pain. If there is a bleeding, apply pressure with a clean cloth to control it. This helps to manage the discomfort.

It’s important to avoid chewing on the affected site and not eat any hard or sticky foods to magnify the problem. OTC pain relievers can help you manage the discomfort,  but be sure to follow the recommended dosage. If you are experiencing intense pain or swelling, apply a compress to the outside of your check for temporary relief.