What is a dental emergency? Any damage to our teeth that is not life threatening is considered a dental emergency. In today’s blog, our Des Moines, IA, dentist will discuss how to respond to common dental emergency situations, such as chipped or knocked-out teeth. With the right steps, you can avoid the onset of cavities and infection.
Responding to Your Chipped Tooth
When you chip your tooth, don’t panic! First, see if you can round up any of the broken pieces, that way you can bring them to the office. If this doesn’t prove possible, then we can still repair the tooth regardless. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water and then use a piece of cloth or gauze to control any bleeding. Placing a cold compress against the side of your face can reduce swelling, and you can also take a pain reliever. You should the contact our team and schedule a visit so we can repair the tooth.
The Importance of Treatment
Even minor cracks or chips could enable bacteria access to the inner layers of tooth structure, which are sensitive and porous in nature. Without treatment, this means a cavity could form and over time, a infection could arise. Treating your damage not only improves smile esthetics, but also helps prevent oral health problems. We may fix the tooth in one visit with dental bonding, which uses the same lifelike composite resin we employ in our tooth-colored fillings. For more substantial damage, we may create and place a custom-made dental crown.
What If a Tooth is Cracked or Knocked-Out?
If you sustain an injury, but don’t notice visible damage, we suggest scheduling an exam anyway. Dental fractures are rarely visible to the naked eye, but can increase the risk of infection and abscess, particularly if they run down the length of the tooth. If your tooth becomes knocked-out, this is also an emergency situation. Place the tooth in a glass of milk or salt water and bring it with you to the office. Don’t touch the root portion, only the crown. We can then offer treatment to address the issue. Again, you may stem bleeding with a bit of cloth and use a cold compress to hold down the swelling. If you have any questions about emergency dentistry, then contact our team today. We would love to help you maintain a healthy and whole smile, and can offer cosmetic and restorative solutions for minor and severe damage.
Do You Have Questions About Emergency Dentistry?
Our team can help address damaged teeth and return your smile to optimal function, health, and beauty with emergency dental care. For more information treating dental emergencies, schedule a consultation with Dr. Burds by calling Gateway Dental Group in downtown Des Moines, IA, at (515) 244-9565.