Emergency Dental Care: When to Call Your Dentist

Dental emergencies can happen at any time and can be painful and frightening. It’s essential to know when to call your dentist for emergency dental care. Prompt attention to dental emergencies can prevent further damage to your teeth, relieve pain, and improve your overall oral health.

In this article, we will discuss common dental emergencies and when you should contact your family dentist for emergency dental care.

Types of Dental Emergencies

There are various types of dental emergencies, and some of the most common ones include:

1. Toothache: Toothaches can be caused by a variety of factors, including tooth decay, infection, and gum disease. A severe toothache can cause a lot of pain and discomfort and requires immediate dental attention.
2. Broken or chipped teeth: Teeth can become chipped or broken due to injury, trauma, or biting into hard objects. A broken or chipped tooth can cause pain and sensitivity, and it’s essential to seek emergency dental care to prevent further damage.
3. Knocked-out teeth: Teeth can be knocked out due to accidents, sports injuries, or falls. A knocked-out tooth requires immediate attention to save the tooth and prevent further damage to surrounding teeth.
4. Loose or dislodged teeth: Teeth can become loose or dislodged due to injury or trauma. It’s important to seek emergency dental care to prevent further damage to the affected teeth.
5. Abscesses: An abscess is a bacterial infection that can cause pain, swelling, and fever. It requires immediate dental attention to prevent further infection and the spread of bacteria.

When to Call Your Family Dentist

If you experience any of the dental emergencies mentioned above, you should call your family dentist immediately. Your dentist will advise you on what steps to take to manage the situation until you can get to the dental office.

In general, you should call your dentist for emergency dental care if you experience any of the following:

• Severe tooth pain
• Bleeding from the mouth
• Swollen or inflamed gums
• Broken or chipped teeth
• Knocked-out teeth
• Loose or dislodged teeth
• Abscesses

What to Do Before Your Emergency Dental Appointment

While waiting for your emergency dental appointment, there are steps you can take to manage your pain and prevent further damage to your teeth. These include:

• Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to reduce swelling and inflammation.
• Apply a cold compress to your face to reduce pain and swelling.
• Use dental floss to remove any food particles that may be stuck between your teeth.
• If a tooth has been knocked out, rinse it gently with water and place it back in its socket. If you can’t replace it, place it in a container of milk or water and bring it with you to your dental appointment.

Conclusion

Dental emergencies can be frightening and painful, but prompt attention to these emergencies can save your teeth and prevent further damage. If you experience any dental emergency, call the dentist’s office in Clackamas, OR immediately for emergency dental care. Taking the necessary steps before your appointment can help manage your pain and prevent further damage to your teeth. Remember to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly to prevent dental emergencies.