Wisdom teeth giving you trouble? You’re not alone. These third molars might be a natural part of dental development, but they often bring pain and complications with them. If you’re experiencing sudden discomfort or other symptoms, you may wonder: Can you see an emergency dentist in Tigard for wisdom teeth?
At Washington Square Dental, we’re here to provide expert care when you need it most, including wisdom tooth removal to relieve pain quickly. Below, we break down how to tell if your wisdom teeth need emergency attention, what to do next, and how to recover quickly so you can get back to feeling your best. Together, we can tackle any wisdom tooth woes.
Understanding Wisdom Teeth and When Removal Is Necessary
Wisdom teeth typically come in between the ages of 17 and 25, but they don’t always arrive trouble-free. Often, there is not enough room in the mouth to accommodate these latecomers, leading to issues such as impacted teeth (when teeth don’t fully emerge), infections, or crowding. While some wisdom teeth may be harmless and manageable, others pose serious risks to your oral health.
At Washington Square Dental, we assess each individual’s dental situation and prioritize timely intervention when wisdom teeth problems turn into dental emergencies.
When Are Wisdom Teeth an Emergency?
Not all wisdom tooth issues require an emergency visit. In fact, that’s one of the benefits of receiving regular dental care—we can monitor your third molars as they emerge and plan to remove them before any issues arise.
However, some situations require urgent attention. Here are common scenarios in which you should seek immediate help from an emergency dentist in Tigard:
- Severe Pain
- Swelling
- Difficulty Opening Your Mouth
- Bleeding or Pus
- Fever
- Bad Breath or Taste
- Damage to Neighboring Teeth
Don’t ignore these symptoms. Many of them, such as swelling, fever, and pus, are signs of infection or an abscess. Timely intervention can prevent further complications and relieve your pain quickly.
Steps to Take Before Seeing a Tigard Emergency Dentist
If you find yourself dealing with a wisdom tooth emergency, here are steps to help manage your symptoms until you can visit our team:
- Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications like ibuprofen can reduce pain and inflammation temporarily.
- Rinse Gently with Warm Salt Water: Swishing a saltwater solution helps reduce bacteria and alleviate swelling.
- Apply a Cold Compress: Use a cold pack on the side of your face to reduce swelling and soothe discomfort.
- Avoid Chewing on the Affected Side: Eating on the opposite side will prevent further irritation to the problematic area.
Remember, these are temporary measures. A visit to Washington Square Dental is essential for long-term relief and care.
What to Expect During an Emergency Wisdom Teeth Removal
At Washington Square Dental, our emergency wisdom tooth removal is designed to quickly alleviate your pain and help you on the road to healing. Here’s what you can expect:
- Assessment and Diagnosis: We’ll begin with an X-ray to identify the exact issue with your wisdom teeth and determine the best course of action.
- Treatment Plan: Our dentist will explain the procedure, ensuring you fully understand the process and feel at ease.
- The Removal Process: We use local anesthesia and can offer dental sedation for added relaxation. We then gently but quickly remove the tooth.
- Post-Procedure Guidance: You’ll leave with clear instructions on aftercare to help you recover quickly and comfortably.
Wisdom Tooth Aftercare Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Recovery is a critical part of wisdom tooth removal. To heal quickly and avoid complications, follow these tips from our emergency dentist in Tigard after your procedure:
- Stick to Soft Foods: Opt for soups, smoothies, and mashed potatoes for the first few days. Avoid crunchy or spicy foods that might irritate the area.
- Avoid Straws: Sucking through a straw can dislodge the clot in the socket and cause a painful condition called dry socket.
- Keep the Area Clean: Gently rinse with salt water and follow the oral hygiene instructions provided by your dentist.
- Manage Pain and Swelling: Use any prescribed medications and apply a cold compress to minimize discomfort.
- Rest and Avoid Strenuous Activity: Allow your body time to heal by refraining from physical exertion for a few days.
Wisdom Teeth Can Be an Emergency—Don’t Wait
If you’re concerned about your wisdom teeth and suspect you need immediate care, don’t wait for your symptoms to worsen. Reach out to Washington Square Dental for advice and, if necessary, care from our emergency dentist in Tigard. No matter what, we’re here to safeguard your health and your smile. Get help now!
