Emergencies of any kind are never welcome. But they can be especially stressful when they involve your mouth or your teeth. While dental emergencies are difficult to predict or prevent, there are still some ways you can prepare for the event if it were to occur – even if that means just gaining knowledge about what issues require an urgent visit to the dentist and which concerns can wait.
If you are worried about a sudden tooth trauma or have unexpected dental pain, it is always best to call your dentist. Leaving a dental emergency untreated can lead to worsening symptoms and more costly treatments.
How to Respond to a Dental Injury
Teeth can get chipped, broken or even come out during an injury or trauma. Whether it was a bad fall or a sports accident, emergency dentistry could mean the difference between saving or losing a permanent tooth. Since time is of the essence when it comes to addressing a dental injury, you need to know some “dental first aid” until you can see your emergency dentist.
Consider creating a separate first aid kit specifically for oral injuries. It should include:
- Gauze to stop bleeding
- Mouthwash to help clean wounds
- Toothpaste or denture adhesive to temporarily hold lost crowns or fillings in place
- Small cup to preserve a knocked-out tooth
Should You See A Dentist Today or Within the Week?
It is important to know that an avulsed or knocked-out tooth needs to be treated by a dentist immediately. In fact, getting to your dentist within an hour is your best chance of saving the tooth and having it re-implanted. If possible, hold the tooth back in its socket on your way to the dentist. The next option is to place the tooth in a cup of milk or water to keep it moisturized. Never handle the tooth by the root, and wash it gently if it gets dirty.
Other dental emergencies, such as a lost crown and fillings should also be seen promptly, but they may not require urgent treatment. Toothpaste or adhesive cream can be used to hold the restoration in place until an appointment is available with your dentist. If you have an injury that won’t stop bleeding or needs stitches, seek professional care quickly. Be careful about going to an ER for dental emergencies, as they are not properly equipped to treat tooth damage. You may also need cosmetic treatment to ensure your smile appearance doesn’t suffer due to your dental injury.
At Dental Care Acworth, we are here to handle your urgent dental injuries. Call our office today if you or a family member has suffered unexpected tooth trauma. We offer a full menu of restorative and cosmetic dental services to ensure all types of dental emergencies are addressed with the highest level of expertise.
FAQs
A dental emergency includes severe tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, uncontrolled bleeding, facial swelling, or a broken tooth. Prompt dental care can help prevent infection and further complications, giving you peace of mind.
Handle the tooth by the crown, rinse it gently without scrubbing, and try placing it back in the socket. If not possible, store it in milk and visit a dentist immediately. Following these steps can help you feel more in control during an emergency.
Yes. Persistent or intense tooth pain may indicate an infection, abscess, or other serious issue. Seeking prompt dental care can help prevent the condition from worsening.
Rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and avoid chewing on the affected area until you receive professional dental treatment.
You should seek immediate dental care for severe pain, swelling, a knocked-out tooth, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection to protect your oral health and comfort. Acting quickly can make a significant difference.
Posted on behalf of
5552 Robin Road Suite A
Acworth, GA 30102
Phone: Call 678-888-1554
Email: staff@72466d50e8.nxcli.io
