No one wants to show up to a big meeting, interview or blind date with a chipped tooth. No one wants to jump on a plane for a cross-country meeting in serious pain. And no one wants to delay a vacation because they have a dental emergency and can’t get in for help. At Birch Dental we are proud to offer our patients emergency dental appointments. For when real life happens, call us and we’ll take care of you right away.
Dental emergencies are serious. Severe pain, abscesses or knocked-out teeth cannot wait until tomorrow. If you are experiencing any of the dental emergencies listed below, please call us right away.
If you have an accident and knock out a tooth it’s important to get in as soon as possible to see if the tooth can be reattached. If your tooth is knocked out, rinse it with water and put it back in the socket and hold it there if possible. If you can’t keep it in the socket, it’s important it stays moist, so the next best option is to keep it in your mouth (resting between your cheek and gums) until you make it in. Be careful not to touch the tooth root if it’s exposed. If you can’t keep it in your mouth, a cup of milk or water are also appropriate.
If a tooth becomes loose suddenly, due to trauma, call us right away. If you have periodontal disease and a tooth becomes loose due to bone loss call us and let us know. In both cases we will get you in as soon as possible. It’s important not to wiggle the tooth or try to eat anything sticky or hard that could potentially loosen it more. If you have periodontal disease, we will likely clean the tooth and make sure it is free of disease before stabilizing the tooth. To stabilize loose teeth there are several approaches. We can bond the tooth, crown the tooth or suggest an appliance to help defer biting force away from the loose tooth.
If you notice a painful blister or bump on your gums, you may have a dental abscess. If you notice puss or the bump hurts or does not go away, call us.
If you have severe tooth pain that is not responding to over the counter pain relief or cold compress, call us. You may be experiencing root damage or infection.
If you notice swelling of the jaw, gums or tongue that are non-life-threatening (they are not constricting your airway) it is appropriate to call the dentist office. If, however you have swelling in the jaw, neck, throat or tongue that is compromising your airway, call 911 and go to the ER. Unexpected, non-life-threatening swelling can be a sign of infection and we can help.
If you have recently had an oral procedure and the area begins to bleed without stopping call us right away. We will need to look at the area and see if stitched need to be replaced or if something further needs to be done.
Not all dental emergencies can be prevented, but by keeping your teeth healthy, strong and protected can help mitigate your risk. According to the American Dental Association there are several precautions you can take to help:
Dental emergencies are a bummer, but we are here when you need us. Call us today to learn more about becoming a patient of Birch Dental.