In the case of a dental emergency, it is easy to become overwhelmed or frightened. Thankfully, there are a number of things you can do to handle a dental emergency before you are able to make it in to see your dentist. Continue reading to learn what your options are in a few different common dental emergencies.
Unexpected Tooth Loss
It is surprisingly common to have a tooth knocked out while playing a sport or even while roughhousing. Never fear! There are some steps you can take on your way to the dentist’s office.
There is a chance you may be able to save the tooth, but it is crucial you call us and get to the office within an hour of the tooth falling out. Take the following precautions to increase your chances of preserving the tooth:
When handling the tooth, avoid touching the root. Touching the root has the potential to interfere with integrating the nerve endings back into the gum tissue. Instead, hold the tooth by the crown, which is the chewing surface of the tooth. The best option is to put the tooth in your cheek. You can also put the tooth in saline solution. As a last resort, you can put the tooth in milk.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
When a tooth cracks or breaks, the severity of the break or crack is what will determine what sort of work you will need to salvage the tooth. If you do not have any pain, consider that a good sign. Pain that accompanies a cracked or broken tooth is usually an indication that the nerve inside the tooth has been exposed or damaged. When this occurs, a root canal is usually needed in order to save the tooth. In some cases, if there is a considerable amount of damage to the tooth or nerve, the tooth will need to be extracted. Your dentist will be able to determine the severity of the crack or break by taking x-rays and completing an exam.
To handle a situation in which you crack or break your tooth, schedule an appointment with your dentist and make a point to get in to see him or her as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the greater the chance that more damage can occur to the tooth.
Toothache
A toothache has the potential to turn your world on its side until it is resolved. The truth is that a toothache can occur for any number of reasons, whether it be a cavity, a crack in the tooth, grinding your teeth at night while you sleep, or even gum disease.
In order to correct the problem and get rid of your toothache, your dentist will need to take x-rays and complete a thorough exam. To hold you over until you are able to make it in to see your dentist, take ibuprofen or advil to control and reduce swelling.
Next Steps
No matter the emergency, you have options for treating or replacing a damaged tooth. Remain calm and follow the steps shared in this article to drastically improve your chances of successfully managing a dental emergency. There’s no need to remain in pain for days while waiting for an open appointment. At Summer Dental, we offer same day appointments and will help to alleviate any discomfort or pain. Call, text or schedule your appointment online 24/7 here.
