Here are some dental emergency management tips:
Knocked-Out Tooth: If you have a knocked-out tooth, rinse it without touching the root and place it back in its socket. If that's not possible, keep the tooth between your cheeks and teeth or in a container of milk. Time is of the essence. Try to get treatment within 30 minutes of injury, if possible, to improve the chances of saving the affected tooth.
A Severe Toothache: If you have a bad toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss around the affected area to dislodge any trapped food. If there's swelling, apply a cold compress. Take over-the-counter pain medication for temporary relief. Never place aspirin directly onto the tooth or gums.
Dental Abscess: An abscess typically results from an infection in or around a tooth root. If not treated, the infection can spread to the nearby teeth, your jawbone, or even your bloodstream, causing serious health complications. If you see a pimple-like bump on your gums or if you suspect that you have an abscess, please contact our office right away.
Swollen Mouth or Jaw: If you see sudden swelling of the face or jaw, you may have an infection that requires urgent attention. If not treated, an infection can pose a serious threat to your health and may be life-threatening. Please call our dental office and schedule an emergency appointment right away.
Cracked or Broken Tooth: Rinse with warm water and place a cold compress against your face if there's swelling. Collect any pieces of your tooth to bring them to your emergency appointment.
Soft-Tissue Injuries: If there's bleeding from the tongue, cheeks, or gums, gentle pressure can help. If, however, the bleeding is severe and you can't control it, you'll need to head to your nearest emergency room.
Lost Dental Crown or Filling: Over-the-counter dental cement or sugarless gum can replace a lost filling or secure a crown. Never use super glue to hold your restoration in place. Make sure to contact us for an appointment.
