We refer to a dental emergency as anything involving damage to the teeth or gums. You should see us right away for treatment so we can correct the issue and prevent further complications. However, in between the injury and walking in our door, there are steps you can take to reduce discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Addressing Dental Emergencies?
Question: What happens if my tooth hurts?
Answer: If you notice sudden pain in your teeth, first floss to try and remove any objects that may be lodged between the teeth. Never use anything other than floss to remove something caught between your teeth as you could damage the gums. If this fails to address the issue, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever and see us as soon as possible.
Question: What should I do if I chip a tooth?
Answer: Try to pick up any pieces of the tooth you can recover. If you can’t, don’t worry, we can still repair your tooth. You can use a piece of cloth or gauze to stem any bleeding and place a cold compress against the side of the face to reduce swelling.
Question: How do I respond to a knocked-out tooth?
Answer: First, only pick up the tooth by the crown, or the visible portion, don’t touch the root. Then rinse the tooth under running water to remove dirt, but take care to leave any tissue in place. You can place the tooth back into the socket and bite down gently to hold in place, or put it in a glass of milk or salt water. Bring it with you to the office.
Question: What if my restorations are loose?
Answer: If you notice a loose or missing restoration, then avoid sugary foods or drinks, as the exposed portions of your tooth will be very sensitive. Give us a call and schedule a visit a soon as possible!
Do You Have a Damaged Tooth?
At Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, we can restore the health and beauty of your tooth with emergency treatment. We’ve proudly served our patients in Astoria, NY (including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.
