The term emergency applies to a situation or symptom that arises suddenly and without expectation. A dental emergency can be frightening, and often very painful. We want to see our patients if they experience any of the below symptoms, but also offer suggestions and tips to help.
Facial Swelling
Swelling in the face may be an indication of a serious dental infection. Infections need to be seen by to determine the severity and determine the best course of action. Do not attempt to ignore or push through signs or symptoms of infection. It could be an indication of an infected tooth, an infection in the bone, or gum infection and typically, these conditions don’t get better on their own, they require a dentist.
What you can do before seeing or other medical professional if you are experiencing symptoms of an infection include:
- Do not ignore or delay, indications of infection. Infection does have the potential of being life-threatening.
- Try to remain upright as much as possible, even when sleeping.
- Drink plenty of water, becoming dehydrated can increase complications.
Knocked Out Tooth
The biggest misnomer for a knocked out tooth is that there is nothing you can do. Patients have lost a tooth and then months later told us that they assumed once a tooth was lost, it was lost. There is a small chance to save a knocked out tooth, and it is better for your dental health to try.
- If possible, place the knocked out tooth right back in the socket immediately.
- Contact our office for an immediate appointment.
- Do not pick off or scrape off material from the tooth, even if it seems gross.
- If you can not place the tooth back in the socket, place it in a cup of milk or water. Milk should be the first option.
Cracked, Chipped, Or Broken Tooth
A cracked, chipped or broken tooth can be shocking, and painful. To determine the best course for restoration, we will need to see you for an appointment. There are a variety of options depending on the severity. From fillings to veneers, to crowns, and more, we can remove the pain and restore the tooth.
