Dr. Puig: Dental Emergency Tips

AT DYNAMIC SMILE DESIGN, WE CARE ABOUT EVERY aspect of your oral health. Unfortunately, no matter how careful all of us are, or how much we try, sometimes life hands us emergencies. It’s a fact. But since preparedness is helpful in any emergency situation, we wanted to share some quick tips with you.

Although it may seem like a minor thing, a dental injury to your teeth or gums should not be ignored as it can be potentially serious—with risks of more permanent damage, or more extensive (and expensive) repair down the road. In any emergency dental situation, it is important to come see us to be sure of exactly what was damaged, and how we can help restore your smile to the one you love to share.

Toothache?

Try rinsing with warm water and be sure nothing is lodged. Apply an ice pack if needed to reduce the swelling, and call us as soon as possible. We probably need to take a look.

Chipped & Broken Tooth?

It’s best to save all the pieces that you can. It may sound a little gross, but there is a chance we can keep more of your natural tooth this way. Apply gauze pressure if you’re bleeding. See us as soon as you can.

A Knocked Out Tooth?

Like a broken tooth, “time is of the essence” in trying to save a tooth that has been completely knocked out.

A Dislodged Tooth?

Apply a cold compress to help if there’s pain. Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. Come visit us to see what can be done as soon as possible.

Something Caught Between Your Teeth?

Gently try dental floss first, and never use a sharp object. If you can’t dislodge it, call us before it becomes infected or swollen and starts causing more serious problems.

Lose A Filling?

Believe it or not, as a temporary measure until you can get in here to see us, you can stick a piece of sugarless chewing gum into the hole. Then, call us!

Lost A Crown?

Come in as soon as possible and be sure to bring the crown. In the meantime, slip the crown back in if you can, or use a cotton swab to apply a little clove oil to the sensitive area.

Broken Braces Wires?

If the wire sticks out and is poking you (ouch), try using the eraser end of a pencil to push the wire into a comfortable position. If you can’t do that, cover it with orthodontic wax or a piece of gauze until you can see us or your orthodontist. Don’t try to cut the wire, as you could end up swallowing it or (worse) breathing it in.
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At Dynamic Smile Design, we want you to keep all your teeth, for life! To help avoid dental emergencies, it is important to be careful, and always wear a mouthguard when needed.

And make sure to contact us for your dental injury questions, or any other dental situations you’d like to know more about. Our Facebook wall or Twitter feed are always ready for your comments!