Accidents happen. Nobody ever wants to end up in the emergency room. An emergency happens, you want somebody to be available. So, during normal business hours, you know, we have lots of capability to be able to get people in as soon as possible, usually same-day, to be able to address something, that it’s a true emergency. After hours, our team volunteers to man the phones, and so, we have somebody available to be able to reach doctors, so that we can get in touch, and, you know, triage and deal with an emergency as it comes up.
Know What to Do in a Dental Emergency
Dental emergencies can occur unexpectedly, causing pain and discomfort. While it’s important to seek professional dental care as soon as possible, there are steps you can take to alleviate discomfort and manage the situation until you can be seen by our dentists. Here’s a guide on how to handle some common dental emergencies:
- Toothache – If you experience a toothache, start by rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater to reduce inflammation. Next, use dental floss to gently remove any trapped food particles. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce swelling, and you can also take over-the-counter pain medication as directed for temporary relief.
- Chipped or Broken Tooth – If you chip or break a tooth, begin by rinsing your mouth with warm water to clean the area. If you find any tooth fragments, try to save them. Using a cold compress can minimize swelling, and covering any sharp edges with dental wax or sugarless gum can help prevent injury.
- Knocked-Out Tooth – If a tooth gets knocked out, hold it by the crown (top) and rinse it gently with water if it’s dirty. If possible, try to reinsert the tooth into the socket without touching the root. If reinsertion is not feasible, place the tooth in a container of milk or saliva. Seeking dental care within 30 minutes is crucial for the best chance of saving the tooth.
- Lost Filling or Crown – If you lose a filling or crown, start by cleaning the affected tooth and try to reposition the restoration temporarily. You can apply dental cement, toothpaste, or petroleum jelly to the area for temporary protection. It’s important to avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth. Schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible to receive a replacement restoration. We can create a crown in one visit using our same-day technology!
- Abscess or Swollen Gums – If you have an abscess or swollen gums, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to reduce bacteria and alleviate discomfort. Applying a cold compress can help reduce swelling, and taking over-the-counter pain medication as directed can provide temporary relief. Contact your dentist immediately to prevent the infection from spreading.
Remember, these tips are temporary measures and should not replace professional dental care. Contact Dentistry At Somerset immediately for guidance and to schedule an emergency appointment 515-337-2244. For a non-emergency need, you can also request an appointment online.