4 Dental Emergencies to Be Aware of from Your Dentist in Valparaiso

Dental emergencies can put a damper on anyone’s day and there are many ways they can occur. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, you’ll need to visit your dentist in Valparaiso, so they can address any necessary issues. To spread awareness, your dentist wanted to highlight a few of the most common dental issues that require emergency attention as well as what to do should they occur.

When an emergency arises, it’s important to be prepared. Here are four occasions where you should schedule a visit with your dentist.

A Knocked-Out Tooth

One of the most common dental emergencies your dentist sees is an avulsed or knocked-out tooth. This typically occurs from forced trauma from either a bad fall or a sports injury. It’s also one of the most time-sensitive injuries. This is because the longer the tooth remains outside of your mouth, the less chance it has of being successfully reimplanted.

In the case of an avulsed tooth, the best thing you can do is wash any dirt or debris from the tooth, making sure that you avoid touching the root, and avoid removing any excess tissue that’s still attached. You’ll also want to place the tooth back into its socket and keep it there until your emergency appointment. If this isn’t possible, keep the tooth in a container of milk or saltwater until you get to your dentist.

A Severe Toothache

There are many causes for a bad toothache. If you experience pain directly after an accident, you’ll want to head to the dentist for closer examination. However, toothaches can also occur from decay, infections caused by an abscess, or sensitivity. Until you get to your dentist in Valparaiso, take over-the-counter painkillers like Advil or Motrin to manage your pain. Avoid aspirin, as direct contact can burn and damage your gum tissue.

Damaged Restorations

If your crown falls out, loosens, or cracks, you should make an appointment as soon as possible. Until then, attempt to reattach your crown using a denture adhesive or toothpaste. Keep in mind, this is only a temporary solution and should not replace a visit to your dentist.

If your crown only feels loose, avoid applying too much pressure to that area. If it cracks or pieces break off, do your best to save these pieces. Use dental putty to cover the remaining pieces of your attached crown and protect your tissue from lacerations.

Soft-Tissue Lacerations

If your gum tissue or cheek lining is cut, you can slow or stop the bleeding using a cold, damp piece of sterilized gauze. If not available, use a clean cloth. To reduce bleeding, apply gentle pressure to the affected area in 10-minute intervals. If bleeding does not stop, wrap an ice cube or ice pack with a cloth and apply that to the cut. If bleeding continues, head to our office or to the nearest emergency room.

Dental emergencies can make you anxious at first, but with these tips in mind, you’ll be far better equipped to handle them before your visit.