What is a Dental Emergency?
Any type of trauma to your mouth that leads to a gum laceration or bleeding, or a fractured or dislodged tooth is described as a dental emergency.
If you have experienced a knocked-out tooth, a broken tooth or a blow to the head, contact your dentist immediately. If left untreated, any type of mouth trauma could cause serious problems and the need for additional treatment.
Dr. Seddon and his dental team can help fix your knocked-out tooth, repair your chipped veneer, help with the pain of an abscessed tooth, or address any pain until further treatment can be provided.
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, try to remain calm. In most cases, your dental emergency can be resolved with timely dental attention.
If you are unable to get to our clinic, or of your emergency occurs after hours, go to your nearest emergency room.
Common Dental Emergencies
These are common dental emergencies that should be treated right away. Call our dental clinic so we can schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
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Lost Fillings or Crowns
Try to identify and find any broken or lost fillings or crowns. Rinse and attempt to place it back on your tooth. Call our office as soon as possible to arrange an appointment to have it fixed.
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Chipped or Broken Teeth
Have a broken or chipped tooth? Try to find the missing piece, put it in a clean container and bring it to your appointment. Your dentist can potentially reattach it. Whether the piece is found or not, phone our office right away to have it repaired.
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Knocked-Out Teeth
If you can find your knocked-out tooth, rinse it gently, holding it by the crown - not the roots. Re-insert it into your tooth socket by gently biting down once it is in its place. Try to keep it moist by putting it in a glass of milk or holding it in your mouth until you arrive at your office.
Take an over-the-counter pain medication. If you are bleeding, do not take aspirin. Apply a cold compress against your cheek where your tooth has been knocked out. This will help reduce your pain and swelling.
Come to the office as soon as possible, calling ahead if you are able. The sooner you can be treated after a tooth has been knocked out, the better the chance your dentist will have of saving it.
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Severe Swelling, Pain or Discomfort
Do you notice your face, mouth or neck areas have sudden moderate swelling, or are you experiencing severe pain or discomfort in or around your mouth?
Call us as soon as possible and follow these steps to alleviate pain in the meantime:
1. Apply a cold compress to your cheek, on the area where you are feeling pain.
2. Take an over-the-counter pain medication.
3. Use salt water to flush the area that is in pain. This will help remove any debris that could be causing the toothache.
Our dentists should see the swelling or condition to diagnose the cause and plan quick, effective treatment.
If you are experiencing sudden severe swelling of the face or neck, head to your nearest hospital emergency department for urgent care.
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