What is a Dental Emergency?
Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them, and we're here to help when they do.
Not sure if what you're experiencing is a dental emergency? Here are some common situations that should be seen by a dentist right away. Give our clinic a call, and we’ll do our best to get you in as soon as possible.
If you're experiencing severe pain, trouble breathing, significant swelling, or heavy bleeding, please go to the nearest emergency hospital immediately.
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Lost Fillings or Crowns
If you have a lost filling or crown, do your best to find it and keep it in a clean container. There's a chance your dentist may be able to reuse it!
Next, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep the area clean and help reduce the risk of infection. Give us a call and we will do our best to get you in as soon as possible.
If you can't get in to see us right away, you can temporarily cover the exposed area with an over-the-counter dental cement to protect it. We also recommend avoiding chewing on the affected tooth until we can fix it.
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Chipped or Broken Teeth
If you break or chip a tooth, give us a call and we will get you in as soon as possible. Chips and breaks may be minor to begin with, but can become bigger problems if left untreated.
In the meantime, if a piece of your tooth has come off, do your best to find it. There's a chance your dentist can reattach it.
Regardless of whether you can find the piece or not, gently rinse your mouth with salt and warm water to clean the area and reduce the risk of infection. If there’s pain or swelling, use a cold compress on your cheek for 10-20 minutes. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help manage discomfort.
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Knocked-Out Teeth
When a tooth gets knocked out, call us immediately. We may be able to save it! The sooner you get treatment after a tooth is knocked out, the better the chances are of saving it.
Gently rinse the tooth with water and hold it by the crown (the top part), avoiding the roots. Carefully try to place it back into its socket and gently bite down to keep it in place. If you’re unable to reinsert the tooth, keep it moist by putting it in a glass of milk or holding it inside your mouth until you can get to the dentist.
To reduce pain and swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the injured area.
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Swelling, Pain or Discomfort
Are you experiencing sudden moderate to severe swelling in your face, mouth, or neck, or feeling intense pain or discomfort around your mouth? If so, please call us right away. Our dentists will evaluate your condition, identify the cause, and provide effective treatment as soon as possible.
In the meantime, apply a cold compress to your cheek where you feel pain, and take an over-the-counter pain medication. You can also rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to help clear any debris that might be causing the discomfort.
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