Treatments for Common Dental Emergencies

Emergency dental services save countless teeth every year. A dental emergency is never planned. Knowing how to get help fast is essential for ensuring the best outcome. When an accident or injury occurs, you should call your family dentist first. If your dentist isn’t available, and there is no emergency dental clinic in your area, an urgent care medical clinic or hospital can treat severe or potentially life-threatening symptoms. Although a hospital isn’t equipped to save your tooth, you will be provided with pain relief.

Three of the most common dental emergencies and the treatments you can expect to receive for them are listed below:

1. A broken jaw is a painful and serious dental emergency. If you suspect your jaw is broken, don’t try to move it. Tie a towel or handkerchief around the affected jaw and over the top of your head to secure the jaw in place, and go to a hospital emergency room immediately. If your face is swollen, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling until you can see a doctor.
2. A tooth that has been knocked outcompletely is a true dental emergency. To attach the tooth successfully, it should be re-implanted on the spot when possible. Replacing the tooth within the first 30 minutes gives you the best chances of saving it. After two hours have passed, the chances of success decline. Before attempting to replace a knocked-out tooth, rinse it in water to remove any debris, but only handle it by the crown; never touch the root. Once a re-implanted tooth has stabilized, a root canal treatment may be necessary. If a tooth cannot be saved, it should be replaced by a denture, bridge, or implant to avoid shifting of other teeth or jaw problems.
3. Broken or cracked teeth should receive prompt treatment to avoid further damage. A broken tooth may cause pain when you chew or sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet foods. Cracks aren’t always visible. They may not even show up on x-rays, so it’s important to discuss your symptoms in detail. Root canal therapy, crowns, and extractions are possible treatments.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in Peoria, call Maple Shade Dental Group today or make an appointment.