A recent story out of Colorado provides yet another reminder of why oral health problems like severe tooth decay should always be addressed by a knowledgeable dentist.
The Internet is rife with tales of home dentistry remedies gone wrong that are alternately funny, horrifying and sad; one trait they all share is proving the importance of quality dental care. If you’re seeking exceptional dental care in the Colorado Springs area, please call The Studio for Exceptional Dentistry at (719) 481-8250 to schedule your consultation with Dr Andrew Hall.
Don’t Try this at Home
A prison inmate from Logan County is suing sheriff and jail staff after a deputy and nurse provided him with a pair of rusty pliers in response to complaints of an infected tooth.
According to an article on The Denver Channel, inmate Mark Traxler—who is serving time for assault, disorderly conduct and obstructing a peace officer—complained of an infected tooth for weeks. He was allegedly given a pair of dirty, rusty pliers and some gauze bandaging, and told to have his fellow inmates pull the affected tooth.
Traxler was in so much pain, according to the lawsuit, that he had four other inmates restrain him while a fifth attempted to remove the tooth with the pliers. In the process, the infected tooth was broken (but not removed), and the pliers broke another tooth; Traxler sustained three abscesses as a result. He eventually received actual dental treatment two months later.
When to See a Dentist
At The Studio for Exceptional Dentistry, our team is dedicated to preventive care. But we also understand that many people put off dental care until problems arise.
You should contact a dentist as soon as possible if you experience any of the following:
- Swollen or tender gums
- Gums that bleed, particularly when brushing or flossing
- Recurring tooth pain
- Teeth that feel loose or are shifting
- Dental trauma (such as a tooth that is broken or knocked out)
- Increased teeth sensitivity to hot and cold
- Regular jaw pain
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Persistent bad breath or unpleasant taste in the mouth
Your oral health is directly linked to your overall health, and untreated dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease can lead to systemic health problems.
To learn more about our general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry services, or to schedule your personal consultation with Dr Hall, please contact The Studio for Exceptional Dentistry online or call us at (719) 481-8250. Our knowledgeable, compassionate team welcomes patients from the greater Colorado Springs area.
