Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and they can be very frightening and painful. Knowing what to do in a dental emergency can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth, or even preventing a serious injury. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what is considered a dental emergency, the four most common dental emergencies, what to do if you suspect a serious maxillofacial injury, and how to handle a pediatric dental emergency. As your trusted Woodlands dentist, we are here to provide you with the information you need to stay safe and healthy.
What is considered a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate attention from your dentist in The Woodlands. A dental emergency can include severe pain, bleeding, trauma to the mouth or teeth, or a broken tooth. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek help from your Woodlands dentist right away.
The four most common dental emergencies are:
- Knocked-Out Tooth: If a tooth has been completely knocked out, it’s important to act quickly. Pick up the tooth by the crown (the part that is visible in the mouth) and avoid touching the root. Rinse the tooth gently with water, and try to place it back into the socket if possible. If that’s not possible, place the tooth in a container of milk or saliva and bring it to your Woodlands dentist immediately.
- Broken or Cracked Tooth: If you have a broken or cracked tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling. Contact your Woodlands dentist as soon as possible.
- Dental Abscess: A dental abscess is a painful infection that occurs at the root of a tooth or in the gums. Symptoms can include severe pain, swelling, and fever. It’s important to seek immediate attention from your Woodlands dentist to prevent the infection from spreading.
- Severe Toothache: If you have a severe toothache that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter pain relievers, it could be a sign of an underlying issue such as a cavity or infection. Contact your Woodlands dentist to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
What to do if you suspect a serious maxillofacial injury such as a broken jaw?
If you suspect a serious maxillofacial injury such as a broken jaw, seek medical attention immediately. Call your dentist in The Woodlands right away or head directly to the emergency room of your nearest hospital. In the meantime, try to immobilize the jaw by wrapping a towel or cloth around the chin and head.
How to handle a pediatric dental emergency?
If your child has a dental emergency, stay calm and contact your Woodlands dentist right away. You can call and talk to Dr. Leslie Blackburn (Pediatric Dentistry) to help guide you. If a tooth has been knocked out, try to find the tooth and follow the same steps as outlined above. If your child has a toothache, rinse their mouth with warm water and use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
The importance of maintaining regular dental appointments
While it’s important to know what to do in a dental emergency, it’s equally important to maintain regular dental appointments to prevent emergencies from occurring in the first place. Your Woodlands dentist can identify and treat issues before they become serious, and provide guidance on how to maintain good oral hygiene.
Dental emergencies can be scary, but knowing what to do can make all the difference. If you experience a dental emergency, contact your Woodlands dentist right away. And remember, maintaining regular dental appointments is key to preventing emergencies from happening in the first place.
For more information, please contact us today:
Dr. Robert Dernick (General, Cosmetic, Implant Dentistry, and TMJ)
Dr. Mike Freeman (General, Cosmetic, Implant, Sleep Apnea, and TMJ)
Dr. Alisa Reed (General, Cosmetic, Implant, Laser, Sleep Apnea, and TMJ)
Dr. Wade Williams (Orthodontics)
Dr. Nikita Vakil (General, Cosmetic, Implant Dentistry)
Dr. Leslie Blackburn (Pediatric Dentistry)