This novel coronavirus has completely changed the health care system. But what about going to the dentist? Keep reading to learn more about getting dental care during the COVID-19 crisis.
A sudden, sharp pain when you bite—that’s seemingly out of nowhere?
Most likely, it’s a cracked tooth.
Even a hairline fracture in a cavity-free molar can make the most hardy of us sit up and take notice. When you’re visited by this kind of bite-down pain, get to the dentist quick.
Most cracks are superficial, affecting only part of the crown, but others are more significant and traverse the tooth deeply enough to expose root structure. The simpler “and more common” fractures that affect only enamel are easily treated with an onlay or crown. The deeper ones threaten the vitality of the tooth and require a rapid and more complicated response. And your pain can’t tell the difference.
Neither youth nor maturity put us out of harm’s way for a fracture. But a good dose of common sense can help with prevention. For instance, wear a mouthguard when you’re engaged in sports (most fractures occur as a result of some kind of rough-and-tumble accident); don’t bite through thread or clothing tags, or chew on pencils or ice; and pay attention when you’re eating olives and fruits with pits.
And if you’re already wincing, don’t wait—reach for the phone.
You Might Also Enjoy...
This novel coronavirus has completely changed the health care system. But what about going to the dentist? Keep reading to learn more about getting dental care during the COVID-19 crisis.
Did you break or lose a tooth? Do you have a severe toothache or increased tooth sensitivity? If you have a dental problem requiring urgent attention, here are the steps you should take to ensure the best outcome.
Everyone talks about gum disease, but why is it such a big deal? Keep reading to learn more about this serious dental issue and the steps you can take to prevent it.
Do you shudder in fear at the mere mention of a root canal? There’s no reason to fear a root canal when it actually relieves your tooth pain and saves your tooth. Here’s all you need to know about root canals, in case you need one in the future.
Are you bothered by a gummy smile? Your gum tissue may overshadow your teeth, but you don’t have to live with it. Discover how you can get rid of a gummy grin and feel more confident about the appearance of your smile.
Teeth grinding and snoring are keeping millions of Americans up at night, robbing them of restorative sleep and putting them at higher risk for dangerous medical conditions. As dentists specially trained in sleep dentistry, we can help.