What to do in case of a dental emergency?

Emergency dentistry refers to dental care provided after an accident or injury. For example, if you’ve chipped off a tooth or knocked out a tooth in an accident, you should seek emergency dental care as soon as possible. Some dentists may attempt to repair the tooth (especially with chipped teeth), while others may recommend that the tooth is removed.

What kinds of dental emergencies are there?

If you have a dental emergency, the first thing you need to do is call your dentist. If you experience any of the following issues, you should call your dentist right away:

• Severe tooth pain

Severe tooth pain is often a sign of an abscess or infection, both of which can become very serious if left untreated.

• Broken, chipped, or cracked teeth

A broken, cracked, or fractured tooth is also considered a severe tooth injury. While a cracked tooth might not hurt, it should still be evaluated by a dentist. A cracked tooth may be a sign of a weakened dental structure, which increases your risk of developing an infection.

• Lost crown or filling

A lost crown or filling can expose your tooth’s sensitive inner structure to decay. You should call your dentist right away, if possible.

• Knocked out tooth

1. If you have a knocked-out tooth, do not panic. There are a few steps you can take right away to help the tooth be re-implanted.
2. Find the tooth. Rinse it off with water. Be careful not to touch the root.
3. Gently try to put the tooth back into the socket. If it will not go back in, place it in a cup of water or milk.
4. Get to your dentist immediately.

• Objects caught between teeth

Certain items can become lodged between your teeth. This includes food particles, pieces of toys, and toothpicks. When these tiny items are stuck in your teeth, you can usually pull them out with dental floss. However, if you find that the object won’t budge, then you should contact your dentist’s office immediately.

• Tissue damage inside mouth, lips, or cheeks

Tooth damage inside the mouth or lips that may or may not bleed is referred to as a dental emergency.

• Broken jaw

Any injury to the jaw is considered a serious dental emergency. If you have an injury to your jaw, rinse your mouth gently with warm water, then apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If the jaw is broken, keep it as still as possible, and call 911 or head to the emergency room.

What to do in case of a dental emergency?

• If you break your tooth, rinse out your mouth with warm water and apply pressure to the tooth to avoid bleeding. Call your dentist right away.
• If you’ve knocked out a tooth, the first thing you should do is rinse off any dirt or other debris. Handle the tooth carefully without touching the roots. Try to put the tooth back in its socket. If this isn’t possible, place the tooth in a container with milk or saliva.
• If your tooth filling comes out, make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can rinse your mouth with water, use ice packs to minimize swelling, and practice good oral hygiene.
• If your crown comes off, do not panic. First, clean the crown and your gums. Then, try putting the crown back in place. If it does not stay, rinse the crown and your mouth with warm water. Do not use soap or toothpaste. You can temporarily reattach the crown by placing orthodontic wax (available at drug stores) on the portion of the tooth that contacts the crown.

Dental emergencies can be stressful and scary, but they don’t have to ruin your whole day. If you’re a patient of record, our emergency dental staff will do their best to see you the same day. We will do everything we can to relieve your pain and restore your smile.

To find out more about the dental services offered at Healthy Smile Dental Care, call (786) 345-2040 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 3412 W 84th St #110, Hialeah, FL 33018.