When a dental accident or emergency catches you by surprise, it’s difficult to know what to do in a moment of panic or pain. Yet, the choices you make can mean the difference between preserving and losing your tooth. Thus, when it comes to your dental emergency, it’s also a good rule of thumb to contact your dentist immediately.

While dental emergencies vary greatly, the following are a few common emergencies, including some general advice on what you can do to help.

Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth

Without question, if a permanent tooth is knocked out, immediate medical attention is necessary. Yet, in the meantime, it is vital to keep the tooth moist. This can be accomplished by placing the tooth back in the socket (do not press the tooth down into the socket or touch the root!). If this is not possible, the tooth can be placed between the cheek and gums or in milk. These examples are the best way to save the tooth while waiting to get to the dentist.

Chipped or Cracked Tooth

If an individual has suffered a chipped or cracked tooth, the first thing to do is rinse the mouth with warm water. Apply cold ice packs or compresses against the damaged area to combat any swelling. Call the dentist!

Broken Tooth

While many categorize broken teeth along with chipped or cracked teeth, broken teeth implies that a larger portion of the tooth has fallen away. There is also a greater chance that the tooth’s root has been affected. Because pain is not a reliable indicator and damage to a tooth’s root is not easily seen, a broken tooth is a true dental emergency, and patients should contact their dentist immediately. If the tooth has broken into multiple pieces, it is important to gather them and rinse them in warm water, if possible.

Abscesses

When individuals experience an abscess, it may or may not elicit pain. Yet, it remains a dental emergency, because inflammation and infection can spread to other areas of the body.

Objects Stuck In The Mouth

Surprising to some, dental professionals receive numerous phone calls about objects being lodged in the mouth. As a rule, if something becomes wedged in teeth or gum tissues, floss is the best way to gently remove it—not sharp or pointed objects. If the patient is unable to remove the object safely with floss, they should call the dentist right away.

With five-star comprehensive dentistry in Charlotte, Marvin Village Dentistry is dedicated to providing comfortable care that puts patients at ease in the aftermath of a dental emergency. Dr. Walford and the team designate time each day to accommodate patients with dental trauma and emergencies, and are sensitive to the fear and uncertainty that patients face when they schedule an emergency visit. Thus, if you are in pain, do not wait. Call Marvin Village Dentistry today.

Posted on behalf of Marvin Village Dentistry