We can’t plan for accidents, but at Deerpath Orthodontics and Family Dental, we’re ready at a moment’s notice. From a toothache to a knocked-out tooth and everything in between, our expert team is here to provide the care when you need it most. Getting prompt care can not only ensure you get relief, but it can also protect your oral health.
Dental Emergency: The Care You Need, When You need It Most
Not everything that happens to your smile is considered an emergency, but there are some problems that you should seek immediate care for, including:
- Severe tooth pain or sensitivity that doesn’t seem to go away
- Chipped, cracked, broken teeth
- Knocked-out tooth
- Swelling or abscess
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- Lost fillings, crowns, or other restorations
If you are unsure if the issue you are facing is a true emergency, call our office. Our team can determine if you should be seen right away.
What to Do If You Face a Dental Emergency
- Assess the situation. If you are experiencing a serious injury, such as broken facial bones, fever, are having trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911 or go to the emergency room.
- Call our office. We can offer guidance on how to handle the situation until you can get to our office.
- Manage any pain and swelling. Applying a cold compress to the cheek or jaw can reduce swelling and help with pain.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever to manage any pain.
- If your tooth has been knocked out, locate the tooth. Hold the tooth by the crown, not the root, to avoid damaging the root further. If possible, gently place the tooth back in its socket and gently bite down to keep the tooth in place. If that isn’t possible, place the tooth in milk or a saline solution and bring it with you to our office.
- In the case of bleeding, gently bite down on sterile gauze to apply pressure. A moist tea bag can also be used.
- If you have broken or chipped a tooth, locate and save the broken piece, if possible. Rinse your mouth with warm water and bring the tooth piece with you to your appointment. We may be able to reattach the piece.
- If you believe you may have a dental infection, it is important to seek immediate care. If you have a fever or are experiencing difficulty swallowing or breathing, go to the emergency room or call 911. If a dental infection spreads, it can be life-threatening.
Seeking prompt care for a dental emergency is important not only to relieve pain and discomfort but also to prevent more serious complications from arising. Untreated dental emergencies can lead to the risk of infection, severe pain, or even tooth loss.
Our team is ready to help you no matter what dental emergency may arise. We’ll make sure you get the care you need when you need it, so your smile and comfort can be preserved.