If I stab my gums or the roof of my mouth while eating, is that a dental emergency?

Between crusty bread, jagged tortilla chips, bone fragments, and utensils, many people regularly, without ever thinking about it, risk punctures to their oral tissue. Not every poke to the roof of your mouth or gums is a dental emergency. Depending on depth, bleeding, swelling, and pain, some do qualify. 

In these cases, contacting your trusted emergency dentist in Fort Collins is the best move.

When an Oral Injury Needs an Emergency Dentist

The good news is that oral tissue regenerates quite quickly, so superficial scrapes and punctures usually heal within a couple of days. There are some cases, however, in which you should seek emergency care:

  • Persistent bleeding that doesn’t stop with time or pressure
  • Significant swelling
  • Severe pain that affects the ability to swallow or speak
  • Something lodged in the tissue
  • Pus, foul taste, or fever

Even when a poke seems like no big deal, persistent pain for several days warrants attention. Contacting Anderson Dental allows Dr. John Anderson to check the area for debris and sharp teeth or restorations, and safeguard your mouth against infection.

Timely Emergency Dental Care in Fort Collins

If you’re in Fort Collins and want to learn more about handling oral injuries and when to seek emergency treatment, contact Dr. John Anderson and our caring and helpful team to schedule an appointment.