In the fast-paced world we live in, a dental emergency can happen when you least expect it. And it is difficult to overemphasize the anxiety and discomfort these situations can cause. That’s why we have put together this guide on how to handle dental emergencies effectively.
Dental Emergency: Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth gets knocked out, it’s crucial to act quickly. Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root) and rinse it gently with water if it is dirty. Try to reinsert it into the socket if possible and hold it in place with clean gauze or a moistened tea bag. If that’s not feasible, place the tooth in a container of milk or saliva and head to our dental office immediately.
Full-Blown Dental Emergency: Chipped or Broken Tooth
If you have chipped or broken a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Save any broken pieces, if possible. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and visit us as soon as you can.
A Lost Filling or Crown
Losing a filling or crown can be uncomfortable. While it’s not an emergency, make sure you address it promptly. Save the restoration if you can and use over-the-counter dental cement or sugar-free gum as a temporary fix until you can schedule an appointment.
Is it a Dental Emergency if Something Gets Stuck Between Your Teeth?
If something gets stuck between your teeth, try to gently remove it with dental floss. Never use sharp objects or excessive force, as this can damage your gums or teeth. If the object remains stuck, reach out to our office for assistance.
Do Bleeding Gums Count as a Dental Emergency?
Persistent bleeding from the gums can be a sign of gum disease or other dental issues. Rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss to remove any debris. If bleeding continues, schedule an appointment with us for a thorough examination.
A dental abscess is a serious condition that requires immediate attention. It can cause severe pain, swelling, and even fever. Rinse your mouth with mild saltwater to help alleviate discomfort and contact us immediately for treatment.
Dental Abscess as a Dental Emergency
Remember that prevention is the best defense against dental emergencies. Maintaining good oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing, along with routine check-ups at our office, can help reduce the risk of unexpected dental issues. At Blue Ocean Dentistry, we are committed to providing the highest level of dental care to our patients of record. If you ever find yourself in a dental emergency, rest assured that we’re here to help. If you are a patient of record, contact our office, and our experienced team will guide you through the situation and provide the necessary care to alleviate your discomfort and restore your oral health.
About Dr. Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, California
Dr. Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments, and materials. Everything we use makes a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We help our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999.
In the event of a serious medical emergency, please call 911.
We understand that dental emergencies can happen at any time, leaving you in pain and distress. That’s why we offer fast, reliable, and expert emergency dental care to help you get back to feeling like yourself again.
Our team of experienced and compassionate dental professionals are available to address any dental emergency that you may have, including severe toothache, broken or knocked-out teeth, abscesses, and more. We are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to provide prompt and accurate diagnosis, and we will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your immediate needs.
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to call us right away. Our team will do everything in our power to alleviate your pain and restore your oral health as quickly as possible.
Please note that prescriptions will only be given to patients of record. If you are a new patient experiencing a dental emergency, please give our office a call so that we may establish the necessary records to provide proper, comprehensive treatment.
Don't Panic:
What to Do When a Tooth Gets Knocked Out
It's crucial to act quickly if you have a tooth knocked out of your mouth. In fact, the first 30 minutes after the injury are the most critical for the chances of saving your tooth. Here is a clear and straightforward guide on what to do if you knock out a tooth within the crucial first 30 minutes. Remember, every second counts when it comes to a knocked-out tooth, so don't hesitate to take action.
Retrieve the Tooth
If possible, locate the tooth and pick it up by the crown (the part that you can see in your mouth), being careful not to touch the root.
Rinse the Tooth
Gently rinse the tooth with water or milk to remove any dirt or debris, taking care not to scrub or dry the tooth.
Reinsert the Tooth
If you are comfortable doing so, try to reinsert the tooth back into the socket. Make sure that the tooth is facing the right way and use gentle pressure to hold it in place.
Keep the Tooth Moist
If you are unable to reinsert the tooth, keep it moist by placing it in a container of milk or a saline solution. Avoid using water or wrapping the tooth in a tissue, as this can damage the root.
Seek Emergency Dental Care
It is crucial to seek emergency dental care as soon as possible, ideally within 30 minutes of the injury. The longer you wait, the lower the chances of saving the tooth.
Manage the Pain
Over-the-counter pain medications can help to manage the pain while you wait for treatment. Avoid taking aspirin, as this can increase bleeding.
