How to Handle Emergencies

There essentially two categories for dental emergencies: long-term damage to teeth resulting from decay or infection and short-term damage from physical trauma. In both of these cases, you should call Amazing Family Dental right away so that you can get scheduled for an emergency appointment. However, here is some advice for dealing with the situation until you arrive.

Toothaches

Make sure there is no food debris between your teeth near where the pain occurs. If it persists, feel free to take an over-the-counter painkiller like ibuprofen, but avoid taking aspirin, which is known to cause a burning sensation. When you come for your appointment, we will examine your tooth and determine the best course of treatment.

Chipped/Broken Teeth

If a chipped or broken tooth causes you pain or the tooth could cut your lips, tongue, cheeks, or gums, take an OTC painkiller and cover the tooth temporarily with either sugarless chewing gum or wax paraffin. If necessary, you can also use a cold compress to reduce swelling. Depending on the severity of the damage, we may recommend cosmetic bonding or a dental crown. If possible, save pieces of the tooth and bring them to our office.

Knocked-Out Tooth

It’s important to handle knocked-out teeth with extreme care. Leave any tissue still attached and touch the tooth only by the crown. After gently rinsing any debris off the tooth and rinsing your mouth, try to place it back into its socket. If that’s not feasible, store the tooth in a container of milk, saltwater, or saliva to preserve it. Come to our office as quickly as possible to have the tooth repositioned. If necessary, we can discuss a dental bridge or implant to replace the missing tooth.

Lost Filling / Crown

If you can locate the restoration, rinse your mouth and try to put the restoration back into place. If you’re experiencing pain or sensitivity, apply clove oil to the tooth beforehand to reduce discomfort as well. You can temporarily attach the restoration to the tooth using either a dental cement or denture adhesive, which will also help protect the exposed area. We will try to salvage the crown, but we may need to replace it entirely.

How to Prevent Emergencies

In many cases, dental emergencies are avoidable through daily brushing and flossing and routine visits to Amazing Family Dental for cleanings and exams. These appointments allow us to make sure you have no problems that could eventually lead to a dental emergency down the road. In addition, those who participate in sports, particularly contact sports, will need to protect their teeth by wearing a mouthguard. If you grind your teeth while you sleep, a nightguard can prevent unintentional damage and help you avoid cracked teeth in the future. You should never use your teeth as a tool, such as to open packaging. Also, avoid chewing ice to steer clear of emergency situations.

Cost of Treating Emergencies

The cost of treating a dental emergency greatly depends on the severity of the problem. In some cases, removing decay and placing a dental filling are enough to address the issue, but in others you may need long-term antibiotic use or more advanced treatment. When you come in, we can explain the problem and your treatment options along with price quotes for each solution. Together we can create a customized treatment plan that will meet your needs.