It's important to go to the dentist for your routine cleaning and checkup every six months, but there are reasons to go in between these appointments. If you are having dental issues or have a dental emergency, it's important to get to the dentist for treatment right away to prevent further injury or worsening health issues. If you aren't sure when you should seek help from the dentist, read on for a few emergency reasons you should get to the dentist.

Infected Tooth

If your tooth gets infected, you can try to rinse your mouth out with saltwater, but if the infection doesn't clear up after a day or two, you should get to the dentist. An infected tooth can cause worsening issues and even lead to other medical and health problems as well, including heart and liver problems. When you have an infected tooth, you may feel pain, and there may also be an awful taste in your mouth from the infection. Get to the dentist for a diagnosis and treatment if the infection doesn't clear up after a day or two with rinsing.

Abscessed Tooth

An abscess is an infection in the tooth, but it usually affects the tooth at the base of the root of the tooth. In this case, you may feel pain in the tooth and in your neck, jaw, and head as well. An abscessed tooth can be very painful, and if left untreated, it could need to be pulled, as it can affect the roots of the tooth. If you begin to feel pain in your jaw, mouth, tooth, or neck, seek treatment from the dentist right away.

Knocked-Out Tooth

If you had an adult tooth knocked out, you should get to the dentist right away. The dentist can possibly replace the tooth in your mouth, or at least check to be sure you didn't damage your jawbone or surrounding teeth. If the knocked-out tooth couldn't be replaced, your dentist could fit you for a replacement tooth, such as a bridge or an implant, so you don't have to go without a tooth in that space. A missing tooth can cause other teeth around your missing tooth to shift over time.

Cracked Or Chipped Tooth

Much like a knocked-out tooth, a cracked or chipped tooth can also be painful and lead to other issues. Be sure to seek help from the dentist if you have cracked or chipped your tooth. 

Go to the dentist for your regular checkups every six months, but if you end up with an emergency, be sure to get to the dentist for a diagnosis and treatment options. For more information, contact a business like Cornerstone Dental.