A dental emergency can strike at any moment, often catching us off-guard. Like most emergencies, it can cause discomfort, pain, and anxiety. However, you shouldn’t suffer alone during a dental emergency. We provide quick and comprehensive emergency dentistry to care for you when you need us.
Call us at 919-587-8401 if you are having a dental emergency! Our Hillsborough dental office can make all the difference in preserving your oral health and easing your discomfort.
Different Dental Emergencies
When you encounter a dental emergency, your first step is to contact our office immediately. We can help you save precious time to save your teeth and oral health. However, you should prepare for any dental emergency to increase your chances of saving your teeth. The following are some emergencies we can fix:
- Toothache: Many dental emergencies often begin with a sharp or sudden toothache, which can result from various causes. These can include tooth decay, infection, or trauma. With a toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss to remove any debris stuck between your teeth. While you wait to see your dentist, take over-the-counter pain relievers to manage your pain. However, you should avoid applying aspirin directly to your gums.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Time is critical when a tooth is knocked out. Handle the tooth by the crown and avoid touching the roots. Rinse the tooth to remove dirt, but do not scrub the tooth to protect the roots. If possible, gently place the tooth back in its socket while you make your way to the dentist. Otherwise, you can store the tooth in milk or saliva–not water. The chances of saving the tooth decrease with time. As a result, you should seek immediate dental attention.
- Chipped or Broken Tooth: If you can, save any broken pieces in the event your dentist can reattach them to your tooth. Then, rinse your mouth with warm water to remove any debris. To minimize swelling, use a cold compress on the outside of your mouth.
- Broken Dental Appliance: If a filling or crown becomes dislodged, try to keep it safe. Dental wax or temporary cement from a pharmacy can temporarily hold a loose crown in place. You should never use superglue or household adhesives on your dental work.
- Abscess or Gum Infection: An abscess or gum infection can cause severe pain and swelling. It is crucial to seek attention from your dentist quickly before the infection spreads or affects your overall health. Do not puncture or try to drain the abscess on your own. Instead, rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution and seek immediate dental care to address the infection.