How to Handle These Common Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies happen every day and can happen anywhere, whether it be at home, at a sporting event, at the gym, in a restaurant, or while traveling. It’s a great idea to have some knowledge as to how to best deal with your dental issue in the moment so that you don’t begin to panic.

Chipped or broken teeth

No one likes the thought of having a chipped or broken tooth, but there is good news! Broken teeth can usually be saved. You’ll want to call a dentist that can handle emergency dental situations and explain what happened and then book an appointment to see them as soon as possible.  chipped tooth abbotsford

For small breaks, your dentist may use a white filling to repair it. If the damage was done to the front of the tooth, your dentist may use bonding. If the break is more serious, a root canal may be necessary. Your tooth may also need a cap or crown.

Your dentist will assess the situation and will know the best approach to take, so try not to worry.

Knocked out teeth

Obviously, you will want to call your emergency dentist right away when it comes to getting a tooth knocked out. Plus, there is a chance that your dentist may be able to put it back in. The only problem with this is, is this would ideally have to be done within an hour for the tooth to have a chance to take root again…so you have to act super fast. knocked out tooth abbotsford

If your tooth looks clean, you can try to put it back in it’s socket or between your cheek and gums, but do not attempt this if there is a chance you may end up swallowing it. Your other option is to place the tooth in a small container of cold milk until you get to see your dentist.

Toothache

For toothaches, call your dental clinic and explain the symptoms. Again, you’ll want to book an appointment to see your emergency dentist at your earliest convenience, before it escalates.

In the meantime, take an over-the-counter pain reliever. It may also help to hold an ice pack against your face where the toothache is. toothache abbotsford

Be sure not to use a hot water bottle or heating pad, as this can make things worse.

So in summary, for any type of dental emergency, you’ll want to do the following:

  • Assess the seriousness of the situation.
  • Check for bleeding and also apply constant pressure to stop the bleeding.
  • Clean the wound.
  • Call your emergency dentist to give them details as to what has happened and ask if they can see you right away. Follow any instructions they provide you with. For an emergency dentist in Abbotsford, call us at Townline Dental: 604-744-1513.

You only get one set of teeth, so it is important to treat all dental issues with urgency!