No one is ever quite prepared for a dental emergency; however, one in six Americans will be in this very situation this year. When trauma or injury to the mouth occurs, you need immediate care from an emergency dentist in Bloomfield. These situations are obvious that you need care right away, but there are other instances where you may not be too sure. Although an unexpected dental problem can be very concerning, not all situations require immediate care. You need to access the situation to determine if the problem is an actual emergency or if care can wait until the next day. With the right response, you will help to promote the outcome of the situation.
Access the Situation
When having a dental emergency, time is of the utmost importance. You need to calm down and access the situation to determine if you are having an actual emergency. Common dental emergencies include:
- Uncontrolled bleeding of the mouth
- A dislodged or knocked out tooth
- Jaw injury
- Painful swelling
- Severe toothache
There are several other situations that can occur, which you may think require immediate care, but really do not. Sudden dental complications that do not require urgent care include:
- Lost dental restoration
- Broken or cracked tooth that does not cause extreme pain
- Broken or damaged oral appliance
- Dull toothache
- Debris stuck in the teeth
Responding to Dental Emergencies
When facing a true dental emergency, you need to contact your dentist right away. When you have had a tooth knocked out, hold the tooth by the crown and do not touch the root. Rinse the tooth with cool water. Do not use soaps, scrub, or dry the tooth. Try to reinsert the tooth back into the socket. If you cannot, place the tooth in a cup of milk. If a tooth has been dislodged, try to gently push the tooth back into position. If you are successful, bite on gauze to prevent the tooth from moving. ‘
When experiencing unexplained swelling or pain, apply ice to the outside of the face to reduce swelling. Use over-the-counter pain relievers to manage your discomfort.
Responding to Non-Urgent Dental Problems
When a tooth breaks, a restoration falls off, or you have a minor toothache, your care can wait until the next day. In the meantime, avoid placing pressure on the tooth and practice proper oral hygiene. You can use over-the-counter pain relievers and apply ice to manage the pain and swelling. Never try to repair a damaged tooth on your own.
If you have had an oral appliance or device break, like dentures or a nightguard, stop using it until it has been fixed. Do not try to fix it yourself, which can cause further damage. Wait until your dentist can make the appropriate repairs.
Emergency Dentist Near Me
No one ever expects a dental emergency to happen, but chances are you will be in this situation eventually. Receiving immediate care is vital to restoring the health and function of a tooth. If you are having a dental emergency, contact our office right away.