When you have a damaged tooth, or one with major discomfort, this could mean you need to see us right away. Dental emergencies can threaten your oral health, which is why we’re here with a solution. In today’s blog, your El Paso, TX, dentists discuss how we address common emergency dental situations.
Common Emergency Situations
A dental emergency refers to any injury to the teeth, or sudden discomfort, that could lead to serious complications unless treated in a timely manner. For example, a chipped, cracked, or broken tooth. A tooth that is knocked loose or out completely. Loose or lost fillings and crowns are common examples, as are sudden toothache or objects caught between the teeth. Just give us a call, even outside of normal business hours, and we will arrange for a time to see you or your child and offer treatment to prevent complications from arising.
Easing Your Initial Discomfort
You can also take steps right away to ease discomfort and limit complications when a dental emergency occurs. When an injury happens, you can rinse with warm water and use a bit of gauze or cloth to control the bleeding. A cold compress to the side of the face could also reduce swelling in the face. If the tooth is broken, see if you can recover any pieces and bring them with you. If a tooth is knocked out, pick it up by the crown, never touch the root, and place it in a glass of milk or salt water. You can also place it in the socket and gently bite down to keep in place.
If something is stuck between your teeth, or if your tooth hurts, gently floss on either side of the tooth and rinse with water. If a filling or crown is compromised, avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks, or items high in sugar, as the exposed tooth is very sensitive. An over-the-counter pain reliever is recommended too, as this helps ease discomfort until we can treat the dental emergency.
Our Treatments
Our team could treat damaged teeth in one visit with bonding and contouring, and we could also create and place crowns for more severe cases of injury. We can help set a knocked-out tooth, and remove anything caught between the teeth. If a filling or crown is compromised, we can replace it. To help prevent emergency situations, be sure you wear a mouthguard if you’re playing full contact sports or martial arts.
TALK TO SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO, TX, ABOUT EMERGENCY DENTISTRY
We would like to help you avoid the onset of a dental emergency. If you’re ready to schedule a visit with our team, contact our Sunny Smiles location on N Zaragoza Rd in El Paso, TX at 915-849-9000.