Dental Emergencies Specialist

What Types of Oral Health Issues Are Considered Emergencies?

Any dental issue that needs immediate treatment to save a tooth, stop bleeding or alleviate severe pain is considered an emergency. Some of the most common dental emergencies include:

• Broken or loose implant
• Broken or lost crown, bridge, denture, veneer, or onlay
• Cracked, chipped or broken tooth
• Deep incision in the lip, gum, or other soft tissues
• Infection or abscess
• Severe toothache
• Tooth that becomes loose or falls out

When a tooth is knocked out or sustains other damage from accident or trauma, immediate treatment is necessary. Other issues may be able to wait a day or so before being treated. If you experience a dental emergency, you should call our office right away.

What Should I do if a Tooth is Knocked Out?

First call the dentist to arrange for an emergency appointment. Second, remember that with proper care and attention, a knocked out tooth can be saved and replaced in the socket. In order to save the tooth, it is essential to get emergency care right away. Do not touch the root of the tooth as this can cause damage. If possible, place the tooth back in the socket to keep it moist until it can be reinstalled. If it is not possible to nestle the tooth back in the socket, the next best choice is to place it between your gum and cheek, then head to the emergency room or to your dentist’s office. You can put the tooth or in a small container of milk, but never put it in water. Teeth that fall out because of decay or gum disease generally cannot be saved.

Is There Anything I can do to Lessen My Chances of Having a Dental Emergency?

By practicing some basic safety precautions, you can protect yourself from dental injuries and emergencies. First, if you participate in any sports, wear protective mouth-guards. Second, teeth are for smiling, biting and chewing. Do not use your teeth to pry open lids or other items. Cracked or chipped teeth and restorations can be avoided by not crunching on ice or hard candy. Regular daily care, such as brushing and flossing, combined regular dental check ups keep your teeth and mouth healthy and strong so they can withstand and recover from injury.