How to Manage Until You Make It to the Emergency Dentist

Emergencies always seem to happen at the most inconvenient times. When you experience a situation that feels urgent but can’t immediately make it to an emergency dentist, there are ways you can mitigate the damage so that your emergency doesn’t result in a long-term condition.

Diana Rodriguez & Associates offers emergency dentistry services in Union City, NJ, providing you with the care you need when you need it.

However, dental emergencies rarely happen in a dentist’s parking lot. Therefore, knowing how to handle more common dental emergencies until you get to the dentist can be critical to avoid further complications.

Toothaches

An unexplained toothache may result from a gum infection or cavity. One of the first treatment options for relieving a toothache is to rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water and then use a water pick or dental floss to remove any trapped food around the gums.

If your mouth feels swollen, you can apply a cold compress outside the irritated area. Severe pain or aches that do not subside may indicate an infection, and an emergency dentist should see you as soon as possible.

Chipped or Broken Teeth

If you break or chip a tooth, it’s essential to try to locate and keep any broken fragments. Next, rinse your mouth and the broken pieces with lukewarm water. If the area bleeds, you can try to stop the bleeding by applying gauze for 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops.

Try to reduce swelling by applying a cold compress to your mouth near the chipped tooth. It’s essential to visit your emergency dentist right away, as a chipped or broken tooth can lead to further complications.

Dislodged or Extruded Tooth

A tooth that’s partially dislodged or extruded requires immediate care. It can be painful, and you’ll need to have the tooth repositioned properly to save it. While waiting to see the emergency dentist, you can apply cool compresses to your cheek near the affected area, but do not manipulate the dislodged tooth in any way.

Knocked Out Tooth

In many cases, you can save a knocked-out tooth by handling it properly. First, find the tooth. Pick it up, holding it by its crown, then rinse the root gently with water to ensure it’s not dirty. Do not scrub the root, and try to keep any tissue on the tooth intact.

If possible, align the tooth correctly and try to reinsert it into the socket. However, if there’s too much resistance, do not force the tooth into its socket.

Instead, put the tooth in a small cup of milk and see your emergency dentist immediately. Returning a knocked-out tooth to its socket within an hour greatly increases the chances of saving it.

Rely on Diana Rodriguez & Associates Emergency Dentistry Services

Patients in Union City, NJ, can rely on Diana Rodriguez & Associates for emergency dentistry services. Dr. Rodriguez is committed to providing her patients with comprehensive and conscientious emergency care to manage any situation affecting their oral health.

We are ready to handle your emergency quickly and efficiently and accept most PPO dental insurance plans. Additionally, we understand how you may have an accident you’re not prepared for. We offer payment plans through CareCredit, LendingClub, and Ally, which start with 0% interest and low monthly payment options.

Put our office on your contact list and reach out immediately if you experience a dental emergency.