Dental emergencies can happen suddenly. Knowing what to do can help prevent more damage and ease pain. Acting quickly and effectively is essential.
Here’s what you need to know about handling dental emergencies and when to go to the dentist.
What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?
Understanding what qualifies as an oral emergency is important. A dental emergency usually means severe pain, bleeding, or a serious injury to your teeth or gums. Some of the most common oral emergencies include:
- Severe toothaches or facial swelling
- Knocked-out or broken teeth
- Lost fillings or crowns
- Abscesses or infections
- Injuries to the soft tissues (gums, lips, cheeks)
If you’re unsure if your situation is an emergency, contact your dentist right away.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Dental Emergency
When you have an oral emergency, it’s essential to remain calm and take the following steps:
- Assess the situation
- Control bleeding
- Preserve any broken pieces
- Contact your dentist
What to Do for Common Dental Emergencies
Promptly handling a dental emergency can help alleviate pain and improve the chances of saving your tooth.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If you’ve knocked out a tooth, act quickly. Rinse it gently, but avoid touching the root. Then, try to place it back in its socket or keep it moist in milk or saliva. Contact your dentist immediately to improve the chances of reimplanting the tooth.
Severe Toothache
A toothache can signal an infection or cavity. While waiting for your dentist, take pain relievers and use a cold compress. If you have a fever or swelling, seek dental care immediately.
Broken or Chipped Teeth
A broken or chipped tooth is painful and can worsen if untreated. Rinse with warm water, apply gauze to stop the bleeding, and use a cold compress. Save any broken pieces and see your dentist ASAP for bonding.
Lost Filling or Crown
If you lose a dental filling or crown, contact your dentist immediately. You can use dental wax or cement as a temporary fix. However, without a proper filling, your tooth may get infected.
Abscess or Infection
An abscess is a severe infection that can occur near the tooth root or gums. It causes swelling, pus, and pain. See your dentist immediately to prevent it from spreading.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
While it’s impossible to prevent every dental emergency, you can take the following steps to reduce the risk:
- Wear a mouthguard during sports to protect your teeth.
- Avoid hard foods that could chip or break your teeth.
- Practice good oral hygiene to prevent cavities and gum disease.
- Schedule regular dental checkups to catch potential issues early and avoid emergencies.
Having a Dental Emergency? Premier Cosmetic Dental Can Help
Knowing what to do in a dental emergency is crucial for minimizing damage and alleviating pain.
If you have a tooth injury, a nasty infection, or need a filling replaced, our skilled team is here to help. At Premier Cosmetic Dental, we understand the need for emergency dental care. We provide quick and professional treatment for a wide range of oral emergencies.
We prioritize your comfort and well-being and aim to provide quick relief to prevent further complications. Whether you’ve been with us for a long time or are a new patient, we’re here to provide the urgent care you need, ensuring your smile stays healthy and beautiful.
