“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail,” said Benjamin Franklin. Although he most likely wasn’t referring specifically to dental emergencies, it’s still relevant advice.
Dental emergencies can be stressful and inconvenient. However, being prepared for the unexpected can make a big difference. Knowing what to do in an emergency can be the difference between saving or permanently damaging your smile.
If you’re a Laytonsville, MD, resident and experience a dental emergency, don’t panic. Below are step-by-step instructions on what to do for some common dental emergencies:
Missing Filling
- Make an appointment with your regular dentist during office hours.
- Fill the sensitive hole with orthodontic wax.
Dental Pain
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to remove debris.
- Gently brush and floss.
- Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling.
- Take an anti-inflammatory pain reliever.
- If the pain persists, call an emergency dentist.
- If the pain disappears, follow up with your dentist during regular hours.
Something Stuck In Teeth
- Gently remove the debris with dental floss.
- Do not use a knife or other sharp object.
Chipped or Cracked Tooth
- Save all the pieces of your tooth.
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication.
- Avoid hard or crunchy foods, sugary snacks, and hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Call your dentist to schedule an appointment during regular business hours.
Knocked-Out Tooth or BrokenTeeth
- Hold the tooth by the crown, not by the root.
- Rinse the tooth with cold water or milk.
- Replace the tooth in the socket and gently bite down on a clean cloth.
- If you can’t replace the tooth, place it in milk or between your cheek and teeth.
- Call your emergency dentist right away.
Mouth Is Bleeding
- Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Visit your dentist to discuss treatments.
- Make an emergency dental appointment if bleeding persists for more than 24 hours.
- Elevate your head.
- Apply pressure to help control the bleeding.
Swollen Face
- Apply an ice pack or cold compress.
- Elevate your head.
- Stay hydrated until your dentist can see you.
Jaw Injury
- If your jaw is broken, go to the Emergency Room immediately.
- If you experienced trauma to your jaw:
- Call your dentist.
- Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling.
- Do not eat solid food.
Call an Emergency Dentist in Laytonsville, MD
Not all dentists offer emergency dental care. A backup plan is always a good idea if your regular dentist can’t schedule an urgent care appointment.
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, please call our office, Sheila L. Brush DDS, PC, in Laytonsville, MD. We understand the urgency of your situation and are here to provide you with the immediate care and attention you need to get back to feeling like yourself again. Whether you’re dealing with a toothache, a broken tooth, or any other dental emergency, we’re available to help. Call us now to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our emergency dental services. Don’t wait – let us help you get the relief you need today!
