DENTAL EMERGENCY
Is It a Dental Emergency?
A toothache can strike at any time, and it’s not always easy to know if you need immediate attention. We can help you decide if your situation is a true dental emergency that requires a visit to our office as soon as possible, or if it’s something that can wait for your next scheduled appointment.
It may be an emergency…
Seek immediate attention if you experience any of the following:
- Severe toothache: Especially if the pain is constant and throbbing.
- Knocked-out tooth: Time is critical! Act quickly to try and save the tooth.
- Lost or broken crown or filling: Left untreated, this can expose the tooth to further damage.
- Facial swelling: This can be a sign of infection and requires prompt attention.
- Uncontrollable bleeding: Apply pressure and call us immediately.
- Jaw pain or difficulty opening your mouth: This could indicate a serious issue.
Not an urgent emergency, but still give us a call…
If you experience any of these situations, call our office as soon as possible:
- Moderate toothache: Pain that comes and goes, but is still bothersome.
- Chipped or cracked tooth: Depending on the severity, this may need prompt attention.
- Loose tooth (adult): This is uncommon and requires a dental professional’s assessment.
- Swollen or bleeding gums: This could be a sign of gum disease and needs to be checked.
- For anything else, contact our office to schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience.
WHAT CAN I DO IF I HAVE A DENTAL EMERGENCY?
CALL US, WE CAN HELP!
A toothache is a discomfort that occurs in or around a tooth. There can a variety of causes that result in a toothache, including cavities, gum disease, cracked teeth, and infections. Tooth pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to temperature, swelling, and pain when chewing. Toothaches can be quite uncomfortable and can interfere with daily activities such as eating and speaking. If you are experiencing toothache pain, please call us to determine the underlying cause and receive proper treatment.
Not all dental emergencies need to be related to pain. Other emergencies include broken tooth, lost filling or crown, loose tooth, broken dentures or unexplained swelling. If you feel like you’re having a non painful emergency, please call us and one of our receptionists will get you in as soon as we can.
What do I do if I knock out a tooth?
If you accidentally knock out a tooth, it’s important to seek dental treatment as soon as possible. Rinse the tooth gently with water, then try to reinsert the tooth into the socket if possible, and hold it in place with clean gauze or a washcloth. If you can’t reinsert the tooth, place it in a container of milk or saliva and bring it with you to the dentist as soon as you can.
How can I relieve tooth pain at home?
Tooth pain can be relieved at home by rinsing the mouth with warm salt water, applying a cold compress to the affected area, taking over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and avoiding hot or cold foods and drinks. It’s important to see a dentist if the pain persists or worsens.
How can I prevent a dental emergency?
You can prevent dental emergencies by practicing good preventative care. This includes good oral hygiene, wearing a mouthguard during sports activities, avoiding chewing on hard or sticky foods, and seeing a dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
What do I do if I have a cracked or broken tooth?
If you have a cracked or broken tooth, you should rinse your mouth with warm salt water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Please see a dentist as soon as you can for treatment, as a cracked or broken tooth can lead to infection or further damage if left untreated.
How can I stop bleeding from my gums?
To stop bleeding from your gums, apply pressure to the affected area with a clean gauze or cloth. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water and avoid brushing or flossing the affected area until the bleeding stops. If the bleeding persists, call your dentist.