General Dental Emergencies
During office hours, immediate attention will be given to your situation, and you will be seen as soon as possible. After office hours, please give the office a call and follow the instructions provided. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.
If you are experiencing a serious or life-threatening emergency, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room.
Below are instructions for handling minor dental emergencies.
Gently clean the area around the tooth by rinsing the mouth with warm water and gently flossing to remove any particles that may be lodged in the tissue around the tooth. If the pain continues, or if the area around the affected tooth is warm, please call our office to schedule an appointment.
Apply ice to help reduce swelling and apply pressure with a clean cloth or sterile gauze to stop any bleeding. If the bleeding continues, call your physician or visit your local emergency room.
Please call our office to schedule an appointment.
Call our office right away and take these steps.
- Do not touch the tooth root, but hold the tooth by the crown and gently rinse the tooth with water.
- Place the tooth back into the socket as quickly as possible and bite down on clean gauze to hold it in place.
- If the tooth cannot be placed in the socket, put the tooth in a small container of milk or saliva and bring it with you to your appointment.
Gently rinse the area with lukewarm water and place a cold compress on the face to reduce swelling. If you can locate the piece of the broken tooth, place the piece in milk, and bring it with you to the office. If more than half of the tooth is broken off, please call us immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to preventing dental emergencies, some proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk. Here are several preventative steps you can take to maintain good oral health and avoid encountering unexpected dental issues:
1. Adhere to a consistent oral hygiene routine: Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day, in the morning and before bed. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush for effective plaque removal.
2. Maintain proper flossing habits: In addition to brushing, flossing daily is crucial to remove plaque and food particles that may accumulate between your teeth. This practice helps prevent gum disease and reduces the chances of dental emergencies.
3. Be mindful of your braces, if applicable: If you wear braces, take extra care to protect them from damage or breakage. Follow the instructions provided by your orthodontist regarding proper oral hygiene and avoiding foods that may harm your braces.
4. Minimize consumption of sugary and fatty foods: Sugary and fatty foods contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. By reducing your intake of these types of foods, you can lower the risk of encountering dental emergencies, such as severe toothaches or cavities.
5. Avoid smoking: Smoking not only affects your overall health but also has detrimental effects on your oral health. It can lead to various oral problems, including gum disease, tooth discoloration, and even oral cancer. Quitting smoking or avoiding it altogether is a critical step in preventing dental emergencies.
6. Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can have adverse effects on your oral health. It can contribute to tooth decay, gum disease, and dry mouth. Moderate your intake of alcohol to help maintain good oral health and lower the chances of dental emergencies.
7. Maintain a healthy and balanced diet: A well-balanced diet with adequate nutrients is essential for healthy teeth and gums. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products in your daily meals. Avoid excessive snacking and choose healthier options whenever possible.
8. Stay adequately hydrated: Drinking enough water helps keep your mouth hydrated and promotes saliva production, which is crucial for neutralizing acid and preventing tooth decay. Make it a habit to consume water throughout the day to maintain good oral health.
By incorporating these preventative measures into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the chances of encountering dental emergencies and ensure long-term oral health. However, it's still important to maintain regular visits to your dentist for professional check-ups and cleanings, as they play a vital role in detecting and addressing any potential issues before they become emergencies.