Steps to Take in a Dental Emergency

An estimated 2 million dental pain visits to hospital emergency departments in the U.S. occur every year. Unfortunately, your local Emergency Room is typically ill-equipped to handle most dental emergencies. They become an extra step in receiving the care you need from a qualified dentist.

Experiencing a dental emergency can be frightening and painful. It’s crucial to stay calm and take the necessary steps to address the situation as quickly as possible. Whether you’re dealing with a severe toothache, a broken tooth or any other dental emergency, Feather Touch Dental Care in Atlanta recommends the following steps to manage the situation effectively until you can see us.

1. Assess the Situation

The first step in dealing with a dental emergency is to assess the situation. Determine the severity of the issue and if there is any visible damage to the teeth or surrounding tissues. If there is bleeding, swelling or severe pain, get to Feather Touch Dental Care as soon as possible.

2. Contact Us Right Away

If the dental emergency occurs during regular office hours, contact us immediately. We can provide you with guidance on the next steps and we keep our schedule flexible to handle emergency appointments.

3. Manage Pain and Discomfort

Managing pain and discomfort is critical when dealing with a dental emergency. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate the pain temporarily. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can also help reduce swelling and provide relief. However, avoid placing aspirin or any other medication directly on the gums or affected tooth, as this can cause further damage.

4. Handle a Knocked-Out Tooth

If a tooth gets knocked out, handle it with care. Hold it by the crown (top part) and rinse it gently with water, being careful not to remove any attached tissue. Try to place the tooth back in its socket and hold it in place while getting to our office. If re-implantation is not feasible, store the tooth in milk or a tooth preservation product and bring it with you to the dentist.

5. Address a Broken Tooth

If a tooth is fractured or broken, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the affected area. Apply gauze to any bleeding areas and use a cold compress to minimize swelling. Avoid eating hard or crunchy foods and seek dental care promptly to prevent further damage.

6. Alleviate Abscess Pain

If you suspect an abscess (a bacterial infection at the root of a tooth) due to severe, persistent tooth pain, swollen gums or a pimple-like bump on the gum, contact us right away. In the meantime, rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution to help alleviate discomfort and promote drainage.

Emergency Dentist in Midtown Atlanta

Dental emergencies can occur unexpectedly, and knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in the outcome. By staying calm, seeking prompt professional care, and taking the necessary steps to manage pain and discomfort, you can effectively address dental emergencies and protect your oral health.

Contact us as soon as possible after a dental emergency to receive timely care instructions until you can get the professional care you need.