We know that sometimes, serious injuries to your teeth could happen outside of normal business hours, or on the weekends. Which is why we offer emergency dentistry, which enables us to address these issues and offer restoration when your smile is in need. In today’s blog, your Garland, TX, dentist will discuss our approach to emergency dental treatment.
What Happens When a Tooth is Damaged?
Any time a tooth is damaged, the risk of decay or infection increases significantly. After all, even minor injuries could expose the sensitive inner dentin to bacteria, a complication that enables cavities to form. Eventually, these cavities could mean toothaches, sensitivity, and yes, even dental infection. Which means when you chip or crack a tooth, or experience any other injury or sudden discomfort, you should let us know right away.
Addressing Your Emergency Situations
If you crack or chip a tooth, then rinse with warm water. Try to recover any lost pieces and if you can, bring them to the office with you. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, and try to stem any bleeding with cloth or gauze. To avoid facial swelling, place a cold compress or ice pack against the side of your face until we can see you. If a tooth is loose, following injury, let us know right away. Take a pain reliever, and again use cloth and an ice pack to control bleeding and swelling.
If a tooth is knocked out completely, pick it up by the crown, never touch the root. Rinse away any dirt and debris gently, but try to remove tissues. Place it in a glass of milk or salt water and bring it with you to the office. If a crown or filling is loose or falls out, then try to avoid any hot or cold foods and drinks, or items high in sugar, as the tooth will be very sensitive. If you have pain in your tooth, or an object is caught between teeth, the gently floss on either side and rinse with warm water. Then call us to schedule a visit!
Protecting Your Smile
To help protect your smile, be sure you wear a mouthguard when playing sports. Also, make time to brush and floss daily and see us every six months. Daily care means a tooth is free of the decay that weakens it and makes it susceptible to pain or injury!
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT EMERGENCY DENTISTRY?
We can address damaged teeth and other issues that could threaten your smile’s health, stability, and beauty. To learn more about treating common dental emergencies, 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.
