In Case of Dental Emergency, Read This Blog


added on: July 1, 2015

July3DentalEmergencyEmergencies of any kind can happen any time, any place, and without any warning. However, dental emergencies fall into a category all their own and cause particular concern to all of us here at our dental office in Tuscaloosa.

Dental emergencies aren’t like other types of emergencies as they require specific attention and special treatment. But what happens when you have a dental emergency? What do you do? Are all dental emergencies handled the same? Let us help.

Toothache

A toothache can be caused by a variety of problems, but the important thing to know is when you have a toothache, something isn’t right. The ideal solution to treating a toothache is getting to your dentist as soon as possible, so he’s able to diagnose the cause behind the pain and treat the problem. However, you can’t always get to your dentist right away. If this happens, you can rinse with warm salt water or apply some clove oil to help ease the pain. But whatever you do, do not crush up any pain reliever pill and put it directly on your tooth or gums. This can cause pain, burning of the gums, and more serious concerns.

Chipped Tooth

A fall, using your teeth as tools, a popcorn kernel. Almost anything can cause a chipped or broken tooth. If this happens, again, get to your dentist as soon as you can. Prior to visiting, rinse your mouth out to remove any lingering pieces of tooth. If you’re bleeding, place some gauze on the injured area and apply pressure.

Knocked Out Tooth

This is probably one of the scariest dental emergencies, especially if it’s a permanent tooth. Baby teeth, while absolutely important, are not as big of concern if lost prematurely. Just make sure to visit your child’s dentist to check for any damage. If a permanent tooth is lost, remain as calm as possible and follow the steps below.

  1. Check for any other serious injuries before proceeding with the tooth.
  2. Avoid touching the roots.
  3. Rinse it with water.
  4. Try to place it back in the socket.
  5. If you can’t, place it in a cup of milk or spit.
  6. Apply gauze to control bleeding.
  7. Get to a dentist as soon as possible.

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, call our Tuscaloosa dental office immediately. We’ll work with you to get the problem taken care of quickly, comfortably, and correctly.

Serving patients from Tuscaloosa, Northport, and Cottondale.

About The Author
Dr. Paul Diaz

Dr. Paul Diaz is a Fellow and member of the American Society for Dental Aesthetics and the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). The AGD honored him with a Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition (LLSR) award, which recognizes members committed to staying up-to-date with the latest in dentistry and giving back to their community. Dr. Diaz has served or is currently serving the University of Alabama School of Dentistry, Alabama Dental Association, Alabama Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Society for Dental Aesthetics.