Dental emergencies happen when you least expect them. From sudden toothaches to broken teeth, having a plan can help you stay calm and take the necessary steps to address the situation promptly. If you or a loved one are facing a dental emergency, here’s your dental emergency gameplan.
Stay Calm
The first step in any dental emergency is to stay calm. Panicking can make the situation worse and hinder your ability to think clearly. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that there are plenty of solutions.
Assess the Situation
Once things are under control, assess the severity of the dental emergency. Is it a toothache, broken tooth, knocked-out tooth, or another issue? Understanding the nature of the problem will help you determine the appropriate course of action.
If a tooth has been knocked out, handle it carefully by the crown (tooth part) and avoid touching the root. Rinse the tooth with water if it’s dirty, but do not scrub or remove any attached tissue. Ideally, try to reinsert the tooth into its socket gently, or store it in a container of milk or saliva until you can see our dentist. For any other dental problem, be sure to remain gentle and keep the area of the mouth clean.
Contact an Emergency Dentist
As soon as you can, contact our Richmond dental office. When one of our team members answers the phone, explain the situation and follow their guidance on what to do next. Dr. Memar has protocols for handling emergencies and will prioritize your case.
Manage Pain and Discomfort
While you wait to see our dentist, you can manage pain and discomfort at home. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate toothaches, while applying a cold compress to the outside of the mouth can reduce swelling and numb the area.
Prepare to Receive Treatment
In many cases, dental emergencies are resolved with prompt treatment. Whether a dental filling or dental crown, our dentist will recommend procedures to address the underlying issue and prevent future emergencies.
Emergency Dental Care in Richmond, TX
Time is of the essence when it comes to dental emergencies. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency in Richmond, TX, remain calm and contact our team at Dental Garden today!
Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0