Emergency Dentistry

What is a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation involving severe pain, injury, or infection in the mouth that requires immediate attention. Common dental emergencies include severe toothaches, knocked-out or broken teeth, abscesses, infections causing swelling or fever, and injuries to the gums or soft tissues of the mouth. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to more serious health issues, so prompt treatment is essential to alleviate pain, prevent further damage, and protect your overall oral health.

What’s the best way to handle a dental emergency?

The best way to handle a dental emergency is to stay calm and contact your emergency dentist immediately. Here are some specific steps to take for different types of dental emergencies:

1. Severe Toothache: Rinse your mouth with warm water and use dental floss to remove any trapped food. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums.
2. Broken or Chipped Tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water and save any broken pieces. Apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth to reduce swelling.
3. Abscess or Infection: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to help reduce pain and draw the pus to the surface. Seek dental care promptly to prevent the infection from spreading.

For all dental emergencies, it is crucial to seek professional help as soon as possible to address the issue and prevent further complications.

What should I do if I have a knocked out tooth?

If you have a knocked-out tooth, follow these steps to improve the chances of saving it:

1. Handle the Tooth Carefully: Pick up the tooth by the crown (the top part) and avoid touching the root to prevent damage.
2. Rinse the Tooth: If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with water, but do not scrub or use soap.
3. Reinsert the Tooth if Possible: Try to place the tooth back into its socket without forcing it. Hold it in place by gently biting down on a clean cloth or gauze.
4. Keep the Tooth Moist: If reinsertion is not possible, keep the tooth moist by placing it in a container of milk, saliva, or a tooth-preservation solution. Avoid using tap water.
5. Seek Immediate Dental Care: Contact your emergency dentist immediately, as prompt treatment within 30 minutes to an hour increases the chances of saving the tooth.

Acting quickly and seeking professional help is crucial for the best outcome.