If you find yourself in a dental emergency, look no further than this guide from Medical Arts Dentistry in Georgia for teeth first-aid.
What Are Some Common Dental Emergencies?
Maintaining proper oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly for checkups is the best way to prevent any dental emergencies. However, there are times when accidents happen and getting immediate attention is the only way to save a tooth or protect your oral health. Some common dental problems that require prompt attention or treatment are:
- Chipping or breaking a tooth
- Toothache with swelling
- The tooth is knocked out
- Partially dislodged or extruded tooth
- Lost filling or lost dental crown
- Abscess or tooth infection
How Do I Know If I am Having A Dental Emergency?
When you have a toothache, it can be hard to know what to do. You may be wondering if you need to seek emergency dental services or if you can wait to see your dentist. It is important to remember that not all dental pain requires you to seek emergency dental services. However, it can be the first sign of a bigger issue and could lead to more serious dental problems. You should call your dentist anytime you have a prolonged toothache. They can help you decide if you need to be seen immediately.
If you are in a situation where one or more teeth have been completely knocked out, your mouth has been injured, or a tooth abscess is causing a lot of pain, you may need to be seen immediately. Serious dental problems can lead to even severe issues if not treated right away. On the other hand, a filling that has fallen out, a minimally chipped tooth, or a broken wire on braces are not as urgent. These situations can wait until your dentist has an appointment, but always consult with your dentist for instructions on what action to take.
What Can I Do At Home If I Have A Dental Emergency?
Depending on the dental emergency, there may be things you can do at home to help minimize your pain or situation. One of the most important things to do is to remain calm. The following is a list of recommendations that you can apply at home to help with your situation:
- Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a mug of warm water. Use this as a warm mouthwash to relieve irritation and reduce swelling.
- If you have a tooth knocked out, put it in a glass of milk until you can get to your dentist. The sooner you get to see your dentist, the greater the chances of saving your tooth, so call them right away.
- If you are experiencing pain surrounding one specific tooth, it is possible that something has gotten stuck between your teeth or inside the gum tissue. Inspect the area in the mirror and floss the area gently.
- Use a cold compress to help reduce swelling, numb irritation, and stop any bleeding that may occur.
- Take the prescribed dose of over-the-counter pain medication to help alleviate any discomfort.
Where Can I Seek Emergency Dental Care?
At Medical Arts Dentistry, we provide comprehensive dental care services for your entire family. We are here to support you through any dental emergency you may have and provide the best possible care. Our Garden City emergency dentists are reliable and trustworthy, meaning you can rest assured that your family will be taken care of in any dental emergency. For any of your dental needs, please call us at 912-355-0605 for your initial consultation. We offer a variety of dental services, including general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry.