No one thinks a dental emergency will happen to them, but the truth is, you or a family member will likely experience one at some point in your life. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, a severe toothache, or a broken dental restoration, knowing what to do and who to call is essential.
In this step-by-step guide to dental emergencies, you’ll learn what to do when an emergency strikes.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
There are many dental emergencies, so understanding the signs and knowing what to do is crucial to saving your tooth and restoring your oral health.
Here are some common dental emergencies and what you should do if they happen to you:
- Toothache — If you have undergone root canal therapy or are experiencing a toothache for a different reason, rinse your mouth with warm water and take over-the-counter pain relievers until you can schedule a dental appointment. You can also place an ice pack on your face to numb the area.
- Chipped or broken tooth — If possible, save the broken piece and seek general dentistry services right away. If bleeding occurs, place a piece of gauze on the tooth until it stops.
- Lost filling — Place a piece of sugarless gum on the cavity and contact our dental office.
- Lost crown — You should call your dentist immediately if you lose a dental crown; in the meantime, you can try to put it back in place to protect your tooth. You can also use toothpaste to hold it in place.
- Knocked-out tooth — Time is critical for a tooth that has been completely knocked out. Without touching the tooth’s roots, gently place it back in its socket. If that doesn’t work, store your tooth inside your cheek or a glass of milk. The sooner we can see you, the better chance we’ll have of saving your tooth.
Experiencing a Dental Emergency in Gaithersburg, MD?
If you need emergency dental care, the team at Lakeforest Dental Associates is here for you! We can ease your nerves, eliminate your pain, and work to save your tooth.
Don’t hesitate to contact our dental office when the unexpected happens. You can reach us at (301) 330-8787.
