How To Handle Common Dental Emergencies

When you experience a dental emergency, it’s important that you know how to handle it and who to call for help. The best thing to do if you are experiencing a dental emergency is to stay calm and contact your dentist as soon as possible. As your trusted dentist in Herndon, VA, we wanted to provide you some additional information on how to handle common dental emergencies to ensure you do not endure more pain or discomfort. Here are the top three dental concerns we treat in our dental office:

Knocked-Out Teeth

When a permanent tooth is dislodged due to facial trauma or excessively crunchy foods, we consider this a knocked-out tooth. If this occurs, try to locate the knocked-out tooth and pick it up by the crown. Avoid touching the tooth roots, and attempt to place it back within its socket. If you are unable to do so, place the dislodged tooth inside a glass of milk to keep it moist and viable. Then, make your way to the dentist’s office. A knocked-out tooth can be reattached if treated promptly. If we are unable to reattach the knocked-out tooth, restorative dentistry options like implants or dental bridges are available for replacing missing teeth.

Toothache

There are many reasons a patient might be experiencing a toothache. Some common causes of a toothache include infections, tooth decay, or oral abscesses. If you experience sudden throbbing tooth pain, you should contact a dentist as soon as possible so that the underlying cause of your pain can be treated. In the meantime, taking over-the-counter pain medication can help relieve your discomfort. Be careful not to hold the medication in your mouth over the affected area as this can cause inflammation or irritation of the soft tissues. You should also hold a cold compress over your jawbone or cheek to help reduce facial swelling caused by a toothache.

Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums are not necessarily a dental emergency, but they are a dental concern. Any unexplained or severe mouth bleeding should be reported to a dentist immediately, especially following a dental procedure. However, if you notice a small amount of blood whenever your brush or floss your teeth, this is not necessarily an emergency. Gingivitis, or bleeding gums, is a common dental concern that signifies the early stages of gum disease. Patients should take bleeding gums as a sign that they should schedule their next dental cleaning soon. The bleeding is caused by plaque or tartar buildup that surround the gum line and irritate the soft tissues. Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help prevent gum disease from progressing.

Schedule An Appointment

Herndon, VA dentist Dr. Mark Jefferies can work with you to address your dental emergency compassionately and effectively. Dr. Jefferies is always available to treat dental emergencies. If you are experiencing a dental emergency call, Dr. Jefferies at (703) 793-1711. Our entire team is here to help you when you need us the most.