A dental emergency means you have suffered an injury to your teeth or gums that is not life threatening, but still requires attention to avoid serious complications. In today’s blog, your Astoria, NY, dentist discusses what you can do to address these situations, and why seeing us as soon as possible is crucial for staying cavity and infection-free.
Damaged Teeth
Common emergency situations involve damage to the teeth. If a tooth becomes chipped or cracked see us right away, as the damage could expose the inner dentin to bacteria and make the onset of decay more likely. You can use a cold compress against the side of your face to ease swelling, and cloth or gauze can control bleeding. You may consider taking a pain reliever to reduce discomfort. Now, if you can recover any pieces of your chipped tooth, please bring them with you. Otherwise, don’t worry, we can still repair the tooth. In fact, with cosmetic procedures like dental bonding, we may be able to fix the tooth in one visit. Now, if your tooth begins to ache severely, this is a possible cause for concern as this could mean an infection or advanced cavity. Again, see us right away so we can identify the source of your discomfort and recommend treatment.
Compromised Restorations
What if your crown or filling comes loose or falls out completely? If this happens, see us quickly, as the compromised or missing restoration means your sensitive inner tooth structure is exposed to bacteria. Try to avoid sugary foods and drinks, or very cold or hot foods and drinks, as these teeth will be very sensitive. We can replace your restoration and return your smile to optimal comfort and function.
Knocked-Out Teeth
What if a tooth becomes knocked-out completely? Should this happen, we suggest seeing us right away. Be sure to bring the tooth with you, by placing it back into the socket and biting down carefully to hold it in place, or putting it in a glass of milk or salt water. When you pick the tooth up only touch the crown, never the root. You can rinse away dirt and debris under gently running water, but take care not to remove any tissue. If you have any questions or concerns about addressing these situations, or if you think you need to see us for treatment, then please contact our office today. We’re always here to address your questions and concerns and help you enjoy optimal oral health!
Our Team Offers Emergency Care
Don’t ignore pain in your smile or a damaged tooth, talk to our team about possible solutions. For more information on our treatment options, then schedule a consultation, call Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, in Astoria, NY, today at 718-728-8320.
