Emergency Dentist: How to Handle Unexpected Dental Emergencies

Dentist Blog

Dental emergencies can be a real pain — literally. Unfortunately, they can also happen at the most inconvenient times. Broken teeth, lost fillings, or severe toothaches can occur during or after office hours, during weekends, or when you're miles away from home. When you find yourself in a dental emergency, the first step is to remain calm and find an emergency dentist to help you.

Classifying Dental Emergencies

To effectively manage a dental emergency, it is crucial to first identify the nature of the situation. While certain emergencies necessitate immediate attention, others can be addressed the following day. A dental emergency refers to any injury, damage, or discomfort to your teeth or gums that requires urgent care from a dentist. Illustrative examples of dental emergencies include:

• Broken or knocked-out teeth
• Severe tooth pain or abscess
• Bleeding from the mouth
• Loosened or displaced teeth
• Lost or broken fillings, crowns, or bridges

Steps to Take in a Dental Emergency

If you experience a dental emergency, the first thing to do is not to panic. Take some of the following steps before seeing your emergency dentist:

• Gargle your mouth with warm water for a thorough rinse.
• To alleviate discomfort, employ dental floss to remove any food particles or debris that could be the source.
• For a broken tooth, rinse the mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to the area, and contact your dentist immediately.
• When dealing with a knocked-out tooth, gently hold it by the crown and rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Gently try to reinsert the tooth into its socket and hold it in place with gentle pressure. If that is not possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and bring it to your dentist immediately.
• For severe tooth pain, take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Why You Need an Emergency Dentist

Even if you have a regular dentist, it is essential to have the number of an emergency dentist readily available. Why? Dental emergencies are unpredictable and can happen at any time. In case of a dental emergency, you need an emergency dentist who can see you immediately and provide the care you need. Remember, delays can worsen your condition, and in some instances, it might be too late to save the tooth.

How to Find a Good Emergency Dentist

Finding a qualified emergency dentist can be challenging, especially if you haven't established a rapport with a regular dentist. Some tips to help you find a good emergency dentist include:

• Ask for referrals from family and friends
• Check online reviews and ratings
• Contact your regular dentist for a recommendation
• Look for a dentist who is available around the clock

For more information, contact an emergency dentist near you.

31 January 2024