What to do in a Dental Emergency:
If you have a dental emergency, call our office, and we will do our best to see you as soon as possible. Do not try to solve the issue on your own, as it may result in further injury. Below are common types of dental emergencies and tips on how to handle them until you are able to get to the office.
Common Types of Dental Emergencies:
Broken Tooth:
Sometimes a mouth injury can result in a broken tooth. Look for any tooth fragments if possible, but refrain from digging into the injured area. Collect any fragments that you find so you can bring them with you to the dentist. Clean the injured area with warm water, and place a cold washcloth over the site of the injury. Call immediately to make an emergency appointment.
Loss of Permanent Tooth:
Locate the tooth if possible and lightly rinse it under room temperature water. While touching only the crown of the tooth, place it back into the socket in the mouth. It may be necessary to hold it in place. If you cannot place the tooth back into the socket, place it into a cup of fresh whole milk to preserve it. Call our office immediately for assistance. Please note that while milk can help preserve the tooth for a short period of time, there is no guarantee that it can be reattached.
Painful Toothache:
A painful toothache could indicate an abscess or other infection in the mouth. Rinse out the mouth with warm salt water to clean and soothe the area. Place a cold compress on the cheek if swelling is present. Call us to make an appointment.
Mouth Injury:
Some mouth injuries may require swift action. If an impact results in a jaw injury and it appears to be out of place, keep the injured person’s face as still as possible and get emergency medical assistance. If you bite your cheek, lip, or tongue and bleeding does not stop after 15 minutes, call a doctor or dentist to access the issue.