Emergency Dentistry

What kinds of issues does emergency dentistry address?

Emergency dentistry is focused on treating an array of urgent dental needs, including:

• toothaches
• loose teeth
• swollen or sore gums
• unusual patches on the gums or soft tissues
• broken, chipped or cracked teeth
• lost or loose fillings
• lost or broken dentures, bridges or crowns
• traumatic injury to the teeth, gums or other areas of the mouth
• teeth that have been knocked out or knocked loose
• any other issue that causes pain or discomfort, interferes with the normal function of the mouth or may result in additional damage if not promptly treated

What should I do if a tooth is knocked out in an accident?

Healthy teeth often can be replanted as long as emergency care is received right away. If possible, replace the tooth in the socket or hold it between the gum and cheek and immediately head to the office or the nearest emergency room. The tooth may also be placed in a glass of milk or water. Be careful not to touch the root to avoid damage that could make replanting the tooth impossible.

How are broken teeth treated?

When a tooth suffers a very large break or if the break extends below the gum line and into the root, the tooth may need to be extracted. Other types of breaks may be treated by removing any decayed areas or fragments and then rebuilding the tooth with strong composite material, finally covering the tooth with a protective crown. Small chips can be repaired with composites, porcelain overlays or inlays, crowns or veneers.

How can I prevent dental emergencies?

Having routine dental checkups twice each year and seeking dental care a the first sign of a problem are two of the most important ways to prevent dental emergencies from occurring. Routine dental checkups help ensure teeth and gums are strong and healthy, which means they're less likely to become damaged. Wearing mouth guards during sports is also important for preventing broken teeth and other serious issues. Don't chew ice or hard candy and never use teeth as prying tools.