Our team offers dental emergency care to handle serious issues and protect smiles of all ages from major complications, such as tooth decay and infection. But what are dental emergencies, and when should you contact us for a visit? In today’s blog, your Prairie Village, KS, dentist talks about what constitutes a dental emergency.
Does Pain in a Tooth Mean an Emergency?
If you have a sudden toothache in one or more of your teeth, this could be a dental emergency. The pain could be related to an issue like a dental fracture, which could be invisible to the naked eye but still expose sensitive inner tissues to harmful bacteria, allowing cavities or infection to develop. Likewise, the presence of a cavity could mean sharp pain in your tooth, an attention is needed to avoid the risk of infection or tooth loss. You should rinse with warm water and floss on either side of the aching tooth, if this fails to dislodge anything or stop the discomfort, then see us right away.
Damaged Teeth
If you chip or break a tooth, even if the damage appears minimal, this still needs attention. Even minor damage could increase the risk of tooth decay and infected teeth. Try to recover any pieces of the tooth you can to ring with you. But if this isn’t possible, don’t worry, repair is still possible. You should rinse with warm water and use cloth or gauze to stem the bleeding. To avoid facial swelling, use an ice pack or cold compress by applying it to the side of your face.
When a Tooth Is Knocked Out
A tooth that is loosened or knocked out following an injury is obviously an emergency situation that needs immediate attention. If the tooth is coed out, pick it up only by the crown, not the roots, and place it in a glass of milk or salt water. Bring it with you to the office.
Impacts on Restorations, Prosthetics, and Orthodontics
If you have a filling or crown that is loose or missing, or if you have a damaged or missing prosthetic, then you should see us right away for treatment, so you can avoid complications for your oral health. If your orthodontics are compromised, such as missing brackets or loose wires, or damaged aligners, then again see us right away for dental emergency care. Treatment can help restore your smile and protect you from major complications! If you have any questions, then contact our team today.
Learn More About When to Seek Treatment
Our team wants to help you enjoy good oral health and avoid the complications of an untreated dental emergency. To schedule an appointment and safeguard your smile, then just contact Robert M. Browne DDS in Prairie Village, KS by calling (913) 901-8585.