Unfortunately, accidents can happen even when you do your best to prevent them. If this happens to you, you can trust the team at Sunny Smiles Family Dentistry to help you. Along with comprehensive care and preventive treatments, we are also prepared to assist you if you have harmed a tooth. In today’s blog, we will discuss what to do when you need urgent dental care.
What Is Considered An Emergency?
You may wonder what problems need urgent care, and which problems can be put off until your next checkup. As a general rule, if you are experiencing discomfort or have been injured, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. Less severe issues, like snoring or bruxism, can be examined during your regular dentist checkup. This may include a sudden, persistent toothache, harm to one of your pearly whites, or a dislodged one. If this has happened to you, call our team as soon as possible to schedule a same-day appointment. We may be able to give you care instructions as you wait for this visit. In the meantime, apply a cold compress to the area if you are experiencing swelling, and take over-the-counter pain reducers to relieve your discomfort.
How We Can Repair Your Smile
Many of these emergencies can be resolved with restorative dental care. When you arrive at your appointment, your dentist will examine your oral cavity and assess the injury. Then, they will discuss what treatment plans may be the most helpful. If you have harmed a tooth, such as with a crack or fracture, this can be repaired with a dental crown. This is a cap that can be placed over the area, usually made of porcelain, and will protect the area from further damage.
If a tooth has been knocked out, your dentist may be able to re-root it. To do this, you will need to save the structure and keep it in a clean bag. If this is not possible, replacement options can be discussed. This will not be done within the same appointment. Measurements will need to be taken and sent to a lab. Depending on the severity and type of loss, you may be able to get a bridge, dentures, or implants.
Ways You Can Prevent Emergencies
Some accidents cannot be avoided, but there are situations that you may be able to prevent. Severe cavities can often lead to toothaches and may require more invasive treatments, like a root canal, to recover the tooth. To avoid the need for this, make sure you are practicing good oral hygiene at home and visiting the dentist regularly. If you have been told you have a cavity, make sure to schedule a restoration as soon as possible.
We Provide Urgent Dental Care
If you need immediate treatment, call Sunny Smiles Family Dentistry in El Paso, TX, today at 915.759.7000.