What to do in a dental emergency

Let's say you have a dental emergency. Do you go to the hospital or to Pearl Dental Care? Where you go for treatment will depend on the type of emergency and where the problem area is. Accidents such as jaw fractures, major lacerations to the face, trouble breathing or swallowing, or jaw dislocation require immediate attention at a hospital emergency department. For dental emergencies involving broken teeth, missing teeth, abscess, oral wounds, or other emergencies that are not considered life-threatening you should see your dentist for immediate care. 

There are several situations the American Dental Association recommends patients become familiar with. 

1. If a tooth is knocked out, hold the tooth by the crown and rinse it if it is dirty. Do not scrub it. Place the tooth back in the socket if possible or in a cup of milk. Go to your dentist ASAP. The tooth can often be re-implanted if within 1 hour. 
2. If you break a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water. Apply pressure to any bleeding areas with gauze. Apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth , cheek, or lip, near the broken area. See your dentist ASAP. 
3. If you bite your tongue or lip clean it gently with a cloth and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling. If the bleeding is heavy or doesn't stop see your dentist ASAP. 
4. If you have a toothache rinse your mouth with warm water and floss the area to remove any trapped food. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth and see your dentist ASAP. 
5. If you wear braces and a wire is sticking out and poking your cheek, tongue, or gum, use a pencil eraser to push the wire into a more comfortable position or cover the wire with wax until you can get to your dentist. 

If it hurts, it's an emergency. Treatment provided sooner increases the odds of a good prognosis. Don't be afraid to contact us no matter how big or small your problem may seem.