4 Strange Dental Emergencies

Did you know 1 in 6 Americans have a dental emergency each year? Knocked-out teeth, chips, and dental abscesses are the most common issues that require urgent attention; however, they aren’t the only problems dentists treat. In fact, some situations can be downright strange. Here are 4 of the weirdest dental emergencies that have caught people off guard.

1. Sprouting Emergency

Small seeds can get stuck between your teeth or in your gum tissue. Although it may seem like nothing more than a nuisance, they can actually sprout. Believe it or not, there have been cases of sprouts occurring from trapped fruit seeds. The mouth contains plenty of bacteria and moisture, allowing a tiny plant to emerge if the seed isn’t removed.

If you’ve enjoyed your favorite fruit, brush and floss your teeth well to ensure there aren’t any small seeds left behind. If one is too difficult to get out at home, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist for assistance.

2. Maggot Infestation

Typically, when envisioning maggots, you might picture rotten food; however, dentists have seen infestations in the mouth. When foods containing fly larva are ingested and the teeth aren’t clean well afterward, the eggs can grow in the gingival tissue.

The gums can become severely swollen, which you might think is a bad case of gum disease, but there might be a bigger underlying problem. Although it is unlikely maggots are the source of your discomfort, it’s best to see your dentist right away.

3. False Bridge

Poor dental hygiene can lead to a severe buildup of tartar, which can cover the teeth. If it isn’t resolved, it can destroy the supporting structures of your teeth. Tartar can also create a bridge, holding your teeth in place, even if they aren’t attached to the gums. As a result, your teeth can come out along with the tartar.

Regular brushing and flossing at home can prevent tartar, so you don’t need to worry about a false sense of security. Don’t forget to visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.

3. Hole in the Mouth

A palatal perforation occurs when a hole develops in the roof of the mouth. It results from the blood vessels in the upper palate constricting, which restricts oxygen flow to the tissue. The tissue will die, leaving behind a hole. It’s not a common dental emergency, but it’s often seen in people with drug abuse, autoimmune disorders, or birth defects.

If you have an unusual oral health problem, there isn’t any reason to be embarrassed because your dentist has likely seen worse. It’s best to contact your emergency dentist right away to restore a healthy smile.

About Dr. Huy Nguyen

Dr. Nguyen has over 25 years of experience in dentistry, which means he has seen his fair share of unusual dental emergencies. He combines his experience with state-of-the-art technology to provide high-quality care. If you need to see a dentist right away, he can help. Contact our office today for an appointment.