What is a Dental Emergency?
Dental emergencies can pop up when you least expect them, and we’re here to help.
Not sure if what you’re experiencing counts as an emergency? Some situations, like sudden pain, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken filling, usually need attention quickly. Give our team a call so we can figure out the best next steps and get you in as soon as we can.
If you’re dealing with severe pain, trouble breathing, significant swelling, or heavy bleeding, please head to your nearest emergency hospital right away.
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Lost Fillings or Crowns
Fillings and crowns are designed to cover and seal a hole or damaged area in the tooth. Without that protection, food particles and debris can easily become trapped in the space, leading to irritation or tooth decay.
If a filling or crown becomes loose or falls out, try to keep it safe and bring it with you to your appointment if possible.
In the meantime, gently rinse your mouth with warm water to keep the area clean. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth, and try to avoid very hard, sticky, or sugary foods that could irritate the exposed tooth.
Give our office a call as soon as possible so our team can assess the area, restore your filling or crown, and help relieve any discomfort. Prompt care can help protect the tooth and prevent further damage.
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Chipped or Broken Teeth
If you chip or break a tooth, start by gently rinsing your mouth with warm water to keep the area clean.
If you’re able to find the broken piece, place it in a small, clean container and bring it with you to your appointment. In some cases, it may be possible to reattach it.
Regardless of whether or not you can find the piece, it’s important to call our office as soon as you can. We can assess the damage and discuss the appropriate options to help restore your tooth and protect it from further issues.
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Knocked-Out Teeth
If a tooth has been knocked out, it's important to act quickly.
First, find the tooth and pick it up carefully by the top (the crown), avoiding contact with the root. If it’s dirty, gently rinse it with water for a few seconds. Don’t scrub it or remove any attached tissue.
If you are able to, try placing the tooth back into the socket and gently biting down on clean gauze or a cloth to help hold it in place.
If you’re not able to reinsert it, keep the tooth moist. Placing it in a small container of milk or holding it carefully inside your cheek can help protect it until you arrive at our clinic for your appointment.
Call our office right away to book an appointment right away, and we will see you as soon as possible. Faster care will increase the likelihood that our team can save the tooth. If we can't, we offer a number of replacement options, such as dental implants, to fill the gap.
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Swelling, Pain or Discomfort
If you notice sudden swelling in your face, mouth, or neck, or you’re dealing with significant pain or discomfort around your teeth or gums, it’s important to take it seriously. These symptoms can sometimes indicate an underlying issue that needs prompt attention.
Give our office a call as soon as you can so we can discuss what you’re experiencing and arrange an appointment. In the meantime, you may find it helpful to place a cold compress on the outside of your cheek near the sore area to help manage swelling.
An over-the-counter pain reliever, taken as directed, may also help with discomfort. Gently rinsing with warm salt water can help keep the area clean and clear away any debris.
When you arrive, our dentists can examine the area, determine the cause of your symptoms, and review appropriate treatment options with you. If swelling is severe or you are having difficulty breathing or swallowing, please seek immediate medical care.
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