What is a Dental Emergency?
Have you ever experienced a dental emergency? What is a dental emergency? Any discomfort or damage related to your teeth or gums can be considered an emergency dental situation. You should see the dentist right away, but there are steps you can take to address the immediate pain of the issue.
Common Dental Emergencies
Toothache or Object Caught Between Teeth: First, rinse your mouth with warm water. Then take floss and floss each side of the aching tooth. If this fails to relieve discomfort or remove the object, then contact our office. Never use anything other than floss or you could end up damaging your gums and causing additional discomfort.
Chipped Tooth: If you chip a tooth, try to find any pieces of the tooth if you can. Then bring these pieces with you to the office. If you can’t recover any, don’t worry. Then rinse your mouth with warm water and apply gauze if the area is bleeding. You place a cold compress against your face to reduce swelling.
Knocked-Out Tooth: If you knock out a tooth, remember to pick it up by the crown, never touch the root. Then rinse the tooth under gently running water to remove dirt and foreign debris, but take care not to remove any tissue stuck to the tooth. Either place the tooth in a glass of milk or return it to the socket. Then come to the office right away.
When to See the Emergency Room
When should you contact 911 or go straight to the emergency room? If you have broken your jaw, of have a cut or injury in your lips or face that continues to bleed then go the emergency room. You may require stitches or other care not available at a dental professional’s office. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.
ABOUT YOUR WACO DENTIST
We look forward to providing families with exceptional care and advanced treatment options. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Corbet Locke, please contact us at (254) 776-4888. Our office welcomes patients living in Waco, Hewitt, McGregor, Woodway, and nearby cities.