Regular dental care helps prevent dental emergencies. However dental emergencies will still occur and listed here are some of the more common ones
Toothache/Sensitive Teeth
A toothache or a sensitive tooth can be caused by several different types of problems. At times it is a sign of a dying nerve inside the tooth. Over-the- counter pain relief medication can temporarily relieve the pain. Contact a dentist for an appointment as soon as you notice the problem. Slight pain, if left untreated, can progress into facial swelling and severe pain. Commonly, tooth pain can be eliminated with endodontic treatment (root canal therapy) or sometimes due to the severity of decay and damage to bone an extraction may be needed
A sensitive tooth may be due to exposed root, a leaking or defective filling, decay, a bite-related problem, or a dying nerve. Go for an evaluation.
Broken Tooth
Teeth with large fillings can easily break or fracture. If the broken tooth is not treated, more serious problems can develop. Broken teeth may or may not be sensitive to air and temperature changes. Sensitivity and pain are not necessarily an indication of how badly the tooth is damaged.
Tooth Knocked Out
Place the tooth in water or a wet towel or cloth or milk or in-between your mouth cheeks. Do not try to scrub or wash the tooth. Get the tooth and the patient to us immediately. The faster the tooth can be re-positioned, the better the odds that the tooth can be saved. Time is crucial.
Object Stuck Between Teeth
Use dental floss to gently remove the object. Do not use sharp or pointed objects to push or pry the object from between your teeth. If the object does not come out easily, come to us for help.
reason the crown came out MAY make it impossible for the dentist to recement the old crown. That decision will be made during your examination.
Final or Provisional Crown/Bridge Falls Out
See us as soon as possible to have the crown recemented. If this is not possible, you can use a denture adhesive (FIXODENT®, for example) that can be purchased without a prescription. Place a small amount in the crown and reseat it. Do not try to force it into place. When you cannot put the crown in correctly, save it, and bring it with you to your appointment.
Broken Partial or Denture
Bring the partial or denture to us for repair. Do not try to glue the plastic yourself. Do not use SUPER GLUE® or other similar materials.
Orthodontic Problems
If the appliance is loose, take the patient to the orthodontist. If a sharp wire is exposed, cover it with a piece of wax, gum, a small cotton ball; anything to keep the sharp end from poking into the soft tissues.
Swollen Gums
Swollen gums are a sign of an infection. The infection may be caused by a dying nerve inside the tooth or a periodontal (gum) problem. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water. See us as soon as possible. The swelling may or may not be accompanied by pain. Either way, it needs immediate attention.
