Many dental problems when left untreated can progress to larger issues that require emergency treatment. A dental abscess can occur when a large area of decay gets to the pulp of the tooth or when periodontal conditions are ignored. These infections can spread and create life threatening conditions. A recent study reported in the Journal of the American Dental Association states that dental related emergencies make up about 1% of all hospital emergency room visits. Also, 90% of these dental-related visits did not result in having the dental procedures done in the hospital emergency room. Most hospitals are not equipped with the specialized tools that we use in the dental office. The best course of action is to call your dental office right away when having tooth pain. It is much easier to fix a problem when it is conservative rather than waiting until the tooth hurts to get it fixed. With digital x-rays and cavity scanners, we are able to find decay much earlier than ever before. I know firsthand that having dental work is no fun, but fixing issues early can be a life saver.
Dr. Julie Pruneski is the dentist and owner of Whispering Pines Dental located at 690 Cooper Foster Park Road in Lorain Ohio. Dr. Pruneski is a current member of the American Dental Association, Ohio Dental Association, Lorain County Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and American Academy of Facial Esthetics. To reserve an appointment with Dr. Pruneski, call 440-282-2023. Check us out online at www.whisperingpinesdental.com and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whisperingpinesdental.