There is a lot of news regarding emergency dentistry and the Coronavirus COVID-19 disease these days. As the coronavirus continues to infect people around the globe, your dentist is concerned about your well-being. Most offices are not doing elective, non-emergency procedures right now. However, you can still make an appointment for urgent needs. If you have a chipped tooth, talk to your dentist about your options.
Since the coronavirus began in Wuhan, China, in late 2019, it has spread to most countries, infecting more than 1.5 million people. To slow this wave, officials have required many businesses and services to shut down so that people can stay home. Dental offices remain open, though people will not have wellness checkups or cosmetic procedures during these restrictions. These measures attempt to limit the number of people in a dental office and to help promote stay-at-home directives. Emergency care is still open to people of all ages.
Teeth are made of the strongest materials in the body. A tooth can withstand years of wear and tear. This does not mean teeth are indestructible. Accidents or injuries can chip a tooth. These often occur due to a hard blow to the face or when a person bites into something hard. Contact sports and falls can also cause this issue. Sometimes, poor oral health leads to chips or cracks in teeth. A lack of brushing can weaken the enamel, making the tooth more susceptible to damage.
One of the biggest concerns a person will have with a chipped tooth is what it looks like. This blemish stands out and can be embarrassing. Chipped teeth can hinder a smile and the person’s appearance. It also may be more difficult to eat, as certain foods could turn a chip into a fracture. Chipped teeth could also invite infection or decay into the area.
Patients will consider emergency dentistry and the Coronavirus COVID-19 disease when the chipped tooth becomes painful. A severe toothache is a common sign of decay or an abscessed tooth. If a dentist does not treat these issues quickly, they can affect other teeth or even the entire mouth. Eventually, an infection could spread to the face, neck and other areas of the body. If the pain is impacting the patient’s daily life, it is time to make an appointment. If the chipped tooth is only a cosmetic concern, the patient will not need emergency help.
No one wants a chipped tooth to ruin a smile. If you have this issue right now, decide whether you need to go to the dentist right away. Because of emergency dentistry and the Coronavirus COVID-19 disease concerns, you should not make an appointment unless the pain is becoming unbearable or making it difficult to eat. Your dentist can also help determine whether you need prompt attention. Though you may not like this blemish in your mouth, waiting for care might be the right decision.
Request an appointment here: https://www.johnbburgessdds.com or call John B. Burgess, DDS at (865) 321-9505 for an appointment in our Oak Ridge office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
A cosmetic dentist focuses on improving a person’s smile to boost their confidence and help them achieve their desired look. From crooked teeth to unsightly blemishes, many problems are fixable due to the hard work of cosmetic dentists. Here are a few of the ways in which a cosmetic dentist can revitalize the look of…
Are you considering getting a smile makeover and looking into all the available options? While some people who want to makeover their smile know exactly what they want, not everyone does. This makes it a good idea for anyone interested in getting their smile made over to understand the options available, which often starts with…
Over-the-counter teeth whitening products can cause teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, and undesirable results. Instead, it is best to visit a licensed dentist for teeth whitening treatment. They can ensure the safety and effectiveness of teeth whitening treatment. While it may be tempting to try and save a few dollars on a store-bought whitening kit, it is…
A dental implant may impact your teeth straightening options and treatment itself. You likely have a dental implant because you have had a missing tooth and chose an implant as your tooth replacement option, along with a dental restoration such as a crown. A healthy mouth is one that has a full set of straight…
A cosmetic dentist focuses on improving a person’s smile to boost their confidence and help them achieve their desired look. From crooked teeth to unsightly blemishes, many problems are fixable due to the hard work of cosmetic dentists. Here are a few of the ways in which a cosmetic dentist can revitalize the look of…
Are you considering getting a smile makeover and looking into all the available options? While some people who want to makeover their smile know exactly what they want, not everyone does. This makes it a good idea for anyone interested in getting their smile made over to understand the options available, which often starts with…