Every adult should see a dentist on a regular basis so they can get a thorough exam, along with x-rays and a professional cleaning. However, there may be times when it's good to schedule an appointment with an emergency dentist in between those regular checkups. Note when you should consider seeing a dentist as soon as possible and how this can protect your teeth and overall oral health.

1. When you notice excessive bleeding or irritation around the gums

Your gums may get irritated and bleed when you're too vigorous with flossing and brushing, and this is often not a problem that typically requires a trip to the dentist's office. It's good to simply be gentle with your toothbrush in that area and see if the irritation clears up after a day.

However, if there is excessive bleeding that doesn't seem to stop or gums that are very red and swollen, and these symptoms don't subside after a few hours and especially after a day, you want to see an emergency dentist. You may have severely cut your gums with floss or they may be something caught between the gums and a tooth that is causing irritation. You may also have an infection in the gums. If you're in severe pain along with the bleeding, see an emergency dentist as soon as possible.

2. If a tooth seems loose

Your teeth should never come loose and if you notice one that wiggles back and forth, it's good to see an emergency dentist. Your dentist may be able to splint it to the adjacent teeth, so that the roots can repair themselves and you don't lose the tooth. You may also need to be fitted with a mouth guard so that you don't bite down on the tooth or otherwise cause it to come even more loose.

3. If you have lacerations inside the mouth

Lacerations and puncture wounds should be treated by an emergency dentist as soon as possible. This is because the human mouth holds germs and bacteria that can easily settle into these open areas, increasing your risk for an oral infection. This includes severe lacerations or open cuts on the tongue. It's vital that you see an emergency dentist so that you can get stitches in this area and, if necessary, be prescribed medication to decrease your risk of an oral infection. You may also need to be fitted with a bite guard or mouth guard so you don't accidentally bite down on the lacerated area and make it even worse.

For more information, contact a specialist like Mandurah Dental Surgery.