Some dental issues are more pressing than others. When dealing with chipped, cracked, infected teeth or damage to orthodontics, patients should never delay. Emergency dental surgery may be necessary to preserve one's oral health. Emergency dental surgery is available at Desert Bloom Dentistry in Safford and the surrounding area. Do not hesitate to get the treatment you need. Call us today at (928) 428-1617 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
A dental emergency is any issue that is potentially life-threatening and requires immediate treatment. Dental emergencies often involve uncontrolled bleeding, severe pain, or infection. Some situations may feel urgent without being true emergencies, such as: • Cosmetic dental procedures • Extraction of asymptomatic teeth • Initial or periodic oral examinations and routine radiographs • Non-urgent orthodontic procedures • Restorative treatment of asymptomatic caries • Routine dental cleanings and preventative care If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies as an emergency, call us at (928) 428-1617. We will advise whether a routine visit or urgent intervention is needed.
A chipped tooth may occur when the enamel is worn away by trauma or excessive wear. Sharp, jagged edges can cause pain and complicate eating and speaking. Patients with large fillings, cavities, or bruxism are especially vulnerable. Treatment depends on the chip’s location and severity. When it causes severe pain or interferes with eating or sleeping, it becomes a medical emergency. Options include reattachment of the broken fragment, bonding, porcelain veneers, or onlays. Prompt care helps prevent further damage and infection.
Cracked teeth may be caused by trauma or general wear. Symptoms range from intermittent pain when chewing to sudden sensitivity to hot or cold. Because these symptoms come and go, cracked teeth can be difficult to diagnose. Patients experiencing such symptoms should seek attention immediately, as early intervention is key to saving the tooth. Treatment varies by extent and location of the crack: • A fractured cusp may be repaired with a filling or crown. • A crack extending into the pulp often requires a root canal. • Split teeth usually need endodontic therapy. • Vertical root fractures may necessitate surgery or extraction.
Dental abscesses form when bacteria infect the tooth root or surrounding tissues. Periapical abscesses often result from untreated cavities, trauma, or prior dental work. Infected teeth require draining the abscess to eliminate infection. In many cases, a root canal is performed to save the tooth. However, severe infections may necessitate extraction. Because an untreated abscess can lead to life-threatening complications, prompt treatment is essential.
Damage to orthodontic appliances rarely demands emergency surgery, but any trauma involving braces, wires, or aligners should be evaluated promptly. Severe cases include puncture wounds or significant bleeding caused by broken wires or brackets. If damage leads to swelling of the gums, mouth, or face—or causes unmanageable pain—emergency intervention may be necessary. In less severe cases, a simple wire adjustment or temporary relief measures can prevent further injury until a routine appointment.
