If you chip a tooth, or suffer any other injuries or discomfort, then you may need to see your Garland, TX, dentist for emergency care. We can repair the issue, often in one visit, and help you continue to enjoy optimal oral health. In today’s blog, we’re looking at common emergency situations and how you can best respond to them!
Chips and Fractures
Even minor chips and dental fractures need to be seen by your dentist. After all, once your outer enamel becomes damaged, this exposes the inner portions of dentin to harmful bacteria, leading to a greater risk of tooth decay and dental infection. Not to mention to impact on your smile’s esthetics! When an injury happens, rinse your mouth with warm water and see us right away. To control swelling, you can place an ice pack or cold compress against the side of your face. A pain reliever could also ease discomfort and a bit of cloth or gauze could stem any bleeding. If you can recover any pieces of your tooth and bring it with you to the office, do so please. With dental bonding and contouring, we can often correct minor damage in one sitting.
Loose or Avulsed Teeth
If a tooth is knocked loose but doesn’t fall out, then don’t place any pressure on it. Avoid biting down or eating anything, and see us right away. If the tooth is knocked-out completely, which is referred to as an avulsed tooth, then you should pick it up by the crown, or visible portion. Never touch the roots! Place the tooth in a glass of salt water or milk. If you can’t, then put the tooth gently into your socket and bite down carefully, just enough to hold it in place. Then see our team right away!
Loose/Lost Restorations
A loose or lost restoration, such as a crown or filling, exposes sensitive tooth structure and unless treated, could mean decay, infection, or in extreme cases, a lost tooth. Avoid consuming hot or cold foods and drinks, and keep away from sugary items as well, as this could cause sensitivity and aches. See us right away so we can replace the restoration and continue to protect your smile! If you have any questions about our emergency care, then please contact our team today to learn more. Don’t let a minor issue lead to something much more serious, something that could threaten the heath and stability of your smile!
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT EMERGENCY DENTISTRY?
Don’t let a minor crack or chip threaten the overall health and stability of your smile. To learn more about our approach to emergency dentistry, then schedule a consultation by calling Mai Dentistry in Garland, TX, today at 972-530-0552. For our patients who don’t speak English, our office is fluent in both Spanish and Vietnamese.
