Most people never consider what to do in a dental emergency until it happens to them. In some cases, an emergency is caused by a sudden accident that occurred during a sports game, practice, or another kind of vigorous activity. In other cases, a person will notice dull pain that worsens until they can no longer ignore it. Today we’ll briefly cover some common situations and how to respond to them.
How Do I Recognize a Dental Emergency?
If you are in extreme pain, have lost a tooth, or feel you are in danger of losing a tooth: you are experiencing a dental emergency. Dental pain with an unconfirmed cause can be just as serious, if not more serious, than an obvious ailment like a knocked-out tooth. In all cases, you will want to visit a dentist like ours who can provide you with emergency dental care.
Common Reasons for Emergency Dental Care
Dental Avulsion
Losing a tooth suddenly is called a dental avulsion. If you lose a tooth, proper handling and emergency dental care may be able to save it. Be sure to pick up your tooth by the crown (not the root) and rinse it very gently without scrubbing. If you cannot re-insert it into the socket, bring it along to your dentists’ office in a container of milk.
Damaged Tooth
Whether you experience a broken, cracked, or chipped tooth, the pain of such dental trauma can be indescribable. While you await your emergency appointment, you can apply a cold compress to the part of your face affected. Avoid taking pain medicine other than acetaminophen and avoid using numbing gels before your appointment.
Severe Pain
A severe toothache can be caused by a number of different conditions, including a dental abscess, acute pulpitis, or well-concealed tooth damage. If you are in pain, it is not a good idea to try to wait it out. Some of these dental conditions can become quite serious if left untreated.
Emergency Dental Care in Hinsdale
If you are experiencing a dental emergency in Hinsdale, IL or the surrounding area, please reach out to our office immediately to schedule an appointment. We will work to see you as soon as possible to relieve your pain. Contact us today.