7 common dental emergencies and what you can do about them!

Dental emergencies often strike when you least expect them, leading to panic and uncertainty. But do not worry! Being fully informed about common dental emergencies and knowing how to respond can make all the difference. Whether it is a sudden toothache or a chipped tooth, staying calm and acting promptly is key. Below, we explore seven common emergency dental situations, how to handle them, and how Dr. Kelsi Lewis and her compassionate team at Glow Dental Co in Austin, Texas, can assist with their expert emergency dental services:

1. Persistent Toothache

A persistent toothache is one of the most common reasons people visit an emergency dental office. It could result from tooth decay, an abscess, or a gum infection. Rinse with warm water, and apply a cold pack to your cheek to help decrease swelling. Avoid placing aspirin on the affected tooth, as it may damage the gum tissue. Be sure to contact Glow Dental Co. for a professional evaluation.

2. Naturally broken or chipped tooth

Biting down on something hard can sometimes lead to a chipped or broken tooth. If this happens, collect the broken pieces, rinse your mouth, and apply gauze to stop any bleeding. A cold compress on your face can help with swelling. Reach out to Glow Dental Co. immediately to increase the chances of successfully restoring both your tooth and your smile!

3. Knocked-out tooth

Knocking out a tooth can be frightening, but quick action can save your tooth. Pick up the natural tooth by the crown, gently rinse it without scrubbing, and try to place it back in its socket if possible. If that is not an option, store it in milk or a tooth preservation solution and head straight to visit Dr. Kelsi Lewis. Timing is critical when handling knocked-out teeth to increase the likelihood of reattachment.

4. Lost crown or filling

Losing either a filling or a dental crown leaves your tooth sensitive or exposed. You can use dental cement or sugar-free gum as a temporary fix, but you must visit an emergency dental office to have it properly replaced. We ensure your filling or dental crown is securely restored.

5. Broken orthodontic appliances

Braces and wires can sometimes break, causing discomfort or poking your cheeks and gums. Use some orthodontic wax provided to cover sharp edges and prevent further irritation. Then, schedule an upcoming appointment with Dr. Kelsi Lewis to repair your braces and keep your orthodontic progress on track.

6. Abscess or swelling

An abscess is a serious infection around a tooth’s root or surrounding gums. It often leads to severe pain, swelling, and fever. Rinse out your mouth using mild salt water to help reduce discomfort, and schedule an immediate visit to our practice for emergency dental services. Abscesses require professional treatment to prevent further complications and will not go away on their own.

7. Object stuck between the teeth

Sometimes food particles or objects get stuck between teeth, leading to irritation and pain. Use dental floss gently to dislodge the object, and avoid using sharp tools that could injure your gums. If flossing does not help, our team is here to provide expert assistance.

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