Emergency Dentistry
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Emergency Dental Care:
How to Respond to Common Emergencies
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Dental emergencies can happen anywhere, at any time. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t panic! Read on for guidelines on how to treat the most common dental emergencies immediately after they occur and before you can get to a dentist. If you are still unsure of what to do or are experiencing any kind of dental emergency, please feel free to call and ask us at K Family Dentistry!
Quick Action for a
Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth is knocked out, it can often be saved if reinserted within 30-60 minutes. Handle the tooth by the crown (top part), not the roots. Rinse it gently with milk or water if dirty, but don’t scrub or wrap it in fabric. Try to place the tooth back in its socket without forcing it. If it doesn’t fit, keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk or in your mouth. Visit the dentist immediately for the best chance of saving the tooth.
PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY
Crown or Filling Fell Out
If your crown or filling falls out, first remove it from your mouth so you don’t accidentally swallow or inhale it, or damage your other teeth by chewing on it. Try to save the crown or filling if possible to bring to the dentist.
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If a Filling Falls Out:
Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to prevent infection or further complications. In the meantime, keep your teeth clean, and if brushing is painful, try rinsing with warm salt water. Dr. Janice or Dr. Peter will assess the situation and determine whether a simple replacement filling is enough or if more extensive treatment is needed.
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If a Crown Falls Out:
You can temporarily place the crown back on your tooth using over-the-counter dental cream from a drugstore. Avoid biting down hard to prevent damage to the crown. Keep the crown and bring it to the dentist to determine if it can be reused or if it needs replacement. It's important to get the crown replaced quickly to protect the exposed tooth from bacteria, debris, and sensitivity.
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PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY
Cracked or Fractured Tooth
A cracked or fractured tooth is a serious issue that may involve both the inside and outside of the tooth. Contact K Family Dentistry immediately for an emergency appointment. While waiting, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep it clean. If the crack is due to facial trauma, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Our dentists will take an x-ray to assess the damage and determine the best treatment, which could be a crown if the interior of the tooth is intact, or root canal therapy if there’s internal damage.
*Extreme Toothache or Pain: Rinse with warm salt water and gently floss to remove debris. Avoid placing medication directly on the painful area. Visit our dentists for quick diagnosis and relief.
