What is a Dental Emergency?
Unsure if you're experiencing a dental emergency? Here are some common situations that need prompt attention form our dentists. Contact our dental clinic to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
If you need urgent care, please visit your nearest emergency facility.
-
Lost Crowns
Crowns are designed to be long-lasting, but they can sometimes become loose. If this happens, don't worry. Simply call our office as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.
In the meantime, gently rinse your crown with warm water and store it in a safe container to bring with you to your visit. In many cases, we can reattach your existing crown, saving you time and the cost of a new one.
While it's ideal to see us the day your crown falls off, we understand that may not always be feasible. If your exposed tooth is causing discomfort, you can temporary protect it with dental cement or wax from a pharmacy to cover our tooth until your appointment.
-
Lost Fillings
If a filling comes loose or falls out, call us immediately to schedule an appointment. The purpose of this dental restoration was to cover a hole created by a cavity, so if that hole is no longer covered, food and debris can become trapped. As a result, your tooth is susceptible to additional decay, so do not delay in getting a replacement filling.
In the meantime, keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until the filling is replaced.
-
Chipped or Broken Teeth
If you have a broken or chipped tooth, try to find any missing pieces, place them in a clean container, and bring them with you to your appointment.
In some cases, your dentist may be able to reattach the piece. Regardless of whether the piece is found, be sure to call our office immediately to schedule a repair.
-
Knocked-Out Teeth
The sooner you seek treatment after a tooth is knocked out, the higher the chances your dentist will have of saving it. Be sure to call our office as soon as possible!
If you can find your knocked-out tooth, handle it by the crown (the top part) and rinse it with warm water. If possible, try to place the tooth socket back in the socket and gently bite down to hold it in place.
If you can't reinsert the tooth, place it in a container of milk and bring it with you to your appointment. If you are experiencing pain, you can apply a cold compress to your cheek.
If your tooth can't be saved, we offer restorative options such as bridges to replace your missing tooth.
-
Swelling, Pain or Discomfort
Are you experiencing severe swelling, pain, or discomfort in your mouth or jaw?
Call us right away, and in the meantime follow these tips to help manage the pain:
- Apply a cold compress to the affected area of your cheek.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
- If the pain is inside your mouth, rinse with warm salt water to help soothe the area.
If the swelling is making it difficult to breathe, please seek emergency care at a hospital immediately.
Find Our Amherst Dental Clinic