No one is ever quite prepared for a dental emergency. As a result, most people do not know how to respond when in an emergency situation. How you react plays a significant role in the outcome of the situation. Responding incorrectly or delaying care can lead to the loss of the tooth or more extensive damage. As an emergency dentist in Dallas, GA, Distinctive Dentistry has the information you need to correctly respond to the most common dental emergencies.
Toothache
A toothache often causes significant pain and discomfort. A suddenly painful tooth is often an indication of an underlying dental problem that will require treatment, such as a dental abscess. If you are dealing with a toothache, you need to rinse your mouth with warm water. Gently, floss the tooth to make sure nothing is trapped around the tooth. Use over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage the pain while you schedule an appointment with your dentist.
Soft Tissue Injury
Everyone bites their tongue or lip from time to time, which can cause bleeding. This is not classified as an emergency. However, if trauma occurs that causes significant bleeding to the lip, tongue, or other soft tissues, you need to get the bleeding under control. Apply pressure to the area to stop the bleeding. Apply a cold compress to help reduce swelling. If you cannot get the bleeding under control, you need to head to your local emergency room, not the dental office.
Knocked Out Tooth
A tooth can be knocked out from injury or trauma to the mouth. If you have had a tooth knocked out, hold the tooth by the crown and do not touch the root. Rinse the tooth with water but do not scrub the tooth or use any cleaners. Do not dry the tooth. If you can, reinsert the tooth back into the socket. If that is not possible, place the tooth in a cup of milk. Head to our office immediately so we can try to reinsert the tooth. With fast treatment, we may be able to save the tooth.
Chipped or Broken Tooth
A tooth can break for several reasons. Minor chipped teeth do not require immediate care but it will need to be treated. A severely broken tooth will require an emergency visit to your dentist. No matter the severity of the break, rinse your mouth with warm water and use cold compresses to reduce swelling. While waiting for your appointment, avoid placing pressure on the tooth.
Dislodged Tooth
If a tooth has been moved out of its correct position, gently try to push the tooth back into position, but do not force it. If you are successful, gently bite on a piece of gauze to prevent the tooth from moving until you receive care.
Your Emergency Dentist
A dental emergency is a frightening experience. We will make the situation easier by providing the prompt, comfortable care you need. If you are having a dental emergency, please contact our office right away for treatment.
