Worried about dental emergencies and what you should do if one occurs? Continue reading to find out more. Dental emergencies can be frightening, especially when they involve a broken tooth. However, it is important to know that modern-day dentistry has allowed for the evolution of a lot of different treatments to address and treat dental emergencies of all kinds. Nonetheless, it is necessary to know what to do when a dental emergency such as a broken tooth occurs.
Outlined below is a quick overview of what one should do when experiencing a broken tooth. This type of dental emergency is one that does require immediate attention, which is why the following information is worth reviewing ahead of time:
First and foremost, when a dental emergency occurs, it is necessary to contact a dentist. Most people have their own dentist that they visit on a routine basis, which should be one's first call. However, because dental emergencies tend to be unpredictable, there is a chance that one's regular dentist is not open or available. In this case, it is advised to contact an emergency dentist. Emergency dentists typically work in facilities that serve as dental urgent care. They have more staffed dentists and are open later than typical business hours. If this is not an option, visiting a local emergency room is the next thing to do as they are also equipped to deal with dental emergencies.
If and when a tooth breaks in a dental emergency, it is advised to look for any broken pieces. Of course, if the entire tooth came out then it is necessary to hold on to that by placing it back into the socket or in a glass of milk. However, not all broken teeth result in complete dislodgement. If a piece of a tooth breaks, it is still necessary to grab any pieces and put them aside. Putting them in a sealed container or bag until a dentist can address the break is best so as to avoid infection.
Dental emergencies do not always cause bleeding, however, with broken teeth, it can happen, especially if the entire tooth is dislodged. In the event that there is bleeding around the area, it is crucial to stop it. Applying pressure with a piece of gauze or a clean towel can be helpful in reducing blood flow and halting it. In the case of a break, bleeding typically stops quickly. If it continues, it is advised to visit an emergency room immediately.
Another tip that can be useful for dental emergencies, especially broken teeth, is to take over-the-counter pain medication. Typically, when a tooth breaks, there is discomfort and swelling too. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help relieve discomfort and reduce swelling or inflammation that results from the break.
One of the most key tips when dealing with any dental emergency is to simply assess the situation. For broken teeth, it is advised to carefully examine what is broken. For example, a tooth can be completely broken, thus leaving only a portion of the tooth in the actual socket. In other cases, a small piece of the tooth may have broken off, but not the entire tooth. It is important to assess appropriately in order to properly explain the situation to the dentist later on.
Aside from assessing the break for the dental specialist, it is also necessary for immediate action. If a tooth is completely broken and dislodged, it is advised to stick the tooth in a glass of milk or saline until a dentist can provide attention. In the event that the tooth is not completely broken, adhesives may be recommended, such as store-bought denture adhesive.
When dealing with any dental emergencies, especially a broken tooth, it is crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible. Typically, a clinic that offers emergency dentistry treatments is the first point of contact, if one's general dentist is not available. Knowing how to appropriately deal with dental emergencies can be quite helpful as they are unpredictable, which is why we recommend having a thorough understanding of the information above. Any unanswered questions or concerns can be directed to a general dentist. Reach out to our dental office today to learn more, or to schedule an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://stellarsmilesinc.com or call Stellar Smiles at (561) 225-2070 for an appointment in our Boca Raton office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Dental Emergencies in Boca Raton, FL.
An All-on-4® treatment can replace multiple teeth. This extensive procedure is for people who are going to have several teeth extracted. It is also for those who have lost many teeth already. Knowing all that you can about the teeth-replacement options available to you is important. If you want to know if an All-on-4 can…
For dental emergencies, people can go to an emergency dentist or an emergency room. However, several things should be considered before deciding where to seek medical help. Just like any other medical emergency, dental emergencies also require different levels of care. This depends on their severity. The ideal place to go for treatment when you…
The term All-on-4® refers to a more convenient alternative than conventional dentures. It involves installing dental implants into the patient’s jaw to serve as the base for a special type of dentures that are fixed in place.Traditional dentures are the most affordable way to replace missing teeth, but they have issues like poor stability. This…
One of the perks of choosing Invisalign® trays for tooth alignment is that there is no need for major dietary changes during treatment. Patients can still enjoy some of their favorite foods and treats without worrying about damaging brackets and wires. There is also no risk of food particles becoming lodged under or between appliances…
An All-on-4® treatment can replace multiple teeth. This extensive procedure is for people who are going to have several teeth extracted. It is also for those who have lost many teeth already. Knowing all that you can about the teeth-replacement options available to you is important. If you want to know if an All-on-4 can…
For dental emergencies, people can go to an emergency dentist or an emergency room. However, several things should be considered before deciding where to seek medical help. Just like any other medical emergency, dental emergencies also require different levels of care. This depends on their severity. The ideal place to go for treatment when you…
