It can be easy to become overwhelmed when you encounter a dental emergency. This is especially true if one happens while you’re on vacation. The most important thing to do is act quickly and remain calm. By seeing an emergency dentist, you can work towards resolving the situation. Continue reading to learn what you should do if you find yourself in this predicament.
How to Tell if You’re Dealing with a Dental Emergency
Now every dental situation is an emergency, and some emergencies are more urgent than others. Generally, a dental emergency is any situation that involves bleeding, facial bone trauma, discomfort that is impacting your day-to-day life, and more. Some of the most common emergencies include injuries affecting your gums, a fractured jaw, a lost filling, a toothache, a knocked-out tooth, and a broken tooth. If you are experiencing any of those, you should seek immediate dental care.
How to Find an Emergency Dentist Right Away
If you’re dealing with a dental emergency, you should give a nearby dentist a call immediately. Most dentists set aside time for their emergency patients during their normal hours, so you may be able to get in right away. If your dental emergency occurs during a time when the office isn’t open, try giving them a call anyway. Their voicemail may offer instructions just in case you have an emergency. They might include a phone number of a local emergency dentist who is on-call.
If you’re unable to find an emergency dentist but have an urgent emergency, head to the local emergency room. They likely won’t have the equipment or medical staff to treat a dental emergency, but they are able to help certain issues with antibiotics and pain relievers until you’re able to see a dentist for treatment.
What You Can Do in the Meantime
Until you are able to see an emergency dentist, do the following to prepare:
- Rinse your mouth with saltwater. It is very important to keep your mouth clean, and saltwater can be used to kill bacteria in the mouth.
- Control bleeding to the best of your ability. Try using gauze to keep pressure on the source of bleeding till you see an emergency dentist. If there is excessive bleeding, visit a local emergency room.
- Preserve lost restorations and knocked-out teeth. Bring these items with you when you see the emergency dentist. If you have a knocked-out tooth, place it back into the open socket or put it in a container of milk to keep the root moist until you make it to the dental practice.
- For discomfort, try taking an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed and/or use a cold compress.
If you have a dental emergency, don’t wait! Give a dentist a call, even if it isn’t at a convenient time. Your smile will be good as new in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Natalie Ortiz is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for well over two decades. She earned her dental doctorate from the Creighton University School of Dentistry and is committed to continuing education to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. Currently, she is a proud member of the American Dental Association, New Mexico Dental Association, and Spear Education. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, she would be happy to help you get some relief. For more information or to schedule an appointment at her office in Las Cruces, visit her website or call (575) 521-8720.