Though ignorance may be bliss in some instances, that certainly isn’t the occasion when it comes to your dental health. Knowing how to care for your teeth is important to…well, caring for your teeth, and knowing what to do in the face of a dental emergency can mean the difference between saving a tooth and having to replace it. Merging modern technology and dentistry with an impressive array of experience, Livonia dentist , Dr. Stewart, can help you get through most dental emergencies calmly, and with an improved chance of preserving your healthy smile. To further improve your odds, he also offers a few tips for effectively handling common emergency situations.
Emergency Dentist’s Tips
- Sudden toothache—A tooth can hurt for a number of reasons. If it’s cracked or fractured, then follow the advice below for structurally damaged teeth. If you don’t notice damage, then the toothache may be due to an advancing disease, or pressure from something stuck between your teeth. Rinse your mouth with warm water and carefully floss between your teeth to dislodge anything that might be causing pressure.
- Chipped tooth—If you chipped a tooth, but it doesn’t hurt, then the damage might not be serious. Nevertheless, visit Dr. Stewart as soon as possible to learn your options for repairing the tooth. If the tooth does hurt, then apply a cold compress to the side of your face after rinsing your mouth with water.
- Cracked, fractured, or broken tooth—Serious structural damage to your tooth might not be a surprise if it occurred from a forceful impact, like a punch. Cracks, factures, and broken-off pieces can expose your tooth’s vulnerable tissues to bacterial infection, and the damage can worsen until the tooth can no longer be saved. Save any pieces that you can gather, rinsing them off along with rinsing out your mouth, and use clean, moist gauze to apply pressure if there’s bleeding. Call our office immediately to schedule an emergency visit.
- Knocked-out tooth (avulsed tooth)—Not every knocked-out tooth is lost for good. If your tooth is forced out of its socket, then collect it by handling only the crown (top part). Rinse the tooth with warm water, taking care not to touch the root or disturb any loose fibers. Try to place the tooth back in its socket, but don’t force it if it doesn’t fit. Instead, place it in small container of milk and bring it with you to your emergency dental visit. If treatment is sought immediately (within the first hour, ideally), then Dr. Stewart may be able to replant the tooth, helping you avoid the need to replace it.
About Dr. James Stewart:
Our philosophy is that excellent dental begins with developing a relationship with the patient. James Steward, DDS, and our compassionate staff proudly serve patients of all ages from Livonia, Farmington Hills, Plymouth, Northville, Dearborn Heights, Garden City, and all surrounding communities. To schedule an appointment, call our office today at (734) 425-4400.