Dental emergencies can happen at any time and knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in preserving your oral health. Being prepared for these situations is crucial and Brookhaven Dental Associates in North Atlanta, GA, can help you identify when dental emergency care is necessary.
Read on as we discuss a few common dental emergencies that our office sees and follow our guidance on how to respond to them at the moment. Contact our urgent dental team now!
Toothache
Toothaches can range from mild discomfort to intense pain. If you experience a toothache, start by rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater to help alleviate any inflammation. Use dental floss to gently remove any food debris that may be causing the pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also be taken, but avoid placing them directly on the affected area. Schedule an appointment with an urgent dental care center as soon as possible to identify and treat the underlying cause of the toothache.
Dental Trauma
Accidents or injuries can result in various dental traumas, such as a chipped or broken tooth, a knocked-out tooth, or a partially dislodged tooth. If you have a chipped or broken tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and try to find any recovered tooth fragments. Place a cold compress on the affected area to reduce swelling and contact a 24-hour dentist immediately.
In the case of a knocked-out tooth, handle it by the crown (top part), avoiding touching the root. Rinse the tooth gently with water and try to place it back into the socket if possible. If not, store it in a container and seek dental emergency care right away. Time is crucial in saving a knocked-out tooth, so act quickly.
Loose or Lost Dental Filling
Dental fillings can become loose or fall out due to wear and tear, trauma, or decay. If you notice a loose or lost filling, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and gently clean the area with warm water. To temporarily fill the cavity, purchase temporary dental filling material from a local pharmacy and carefully follow the instructions. Contact Brookhaven Dental Associates as soon as possible to have the filling replaced or repaired to prevent further damage or infection.
Abscessed Tooth
An abscessed tooth is a serious dental infection that requires immediate attention. It is often accompanied by severe pain, swelling, a pus-filled bump, and a fever. If you suspect you have an abscessed tooth, rinse your mouth with salty warm water to help reduce swelling and draw out some of the infection. Then make an emergency dental appointment as soon as possible. Antibiotics may be prescribed, and a root canal or extraction may be necessary to treat the infection.
Broken Orthodontic Appliance
If you have braces or any other orthodontic appliance, it is not uncommon for them to break or become loose. If a wire is poking your cheek or causing discomfort, you can use orthodontic wax to push it away from the irritated area. If a bracket becomes loose, or if you cannot fix the issue yourself or experience significant discomfort, contact your orthodontist for guidance and to schedule a repair appointment.
Contact Our Atlanta Urgent Dental Care Team
Remember, in any dental emergency, prompt action is essential. Reach out to your dentist or orthodontist immediately for professional guidance and to schedule an emergency appointment. Our Brookhaven Dental Associates team has the expertise and tools necessary to address your specific situation effectively.
Stay calm, follow proper oral hygiene practices, and prioritize your oral health to ensure the best outcome in any dental emergency.
Comments