What qualifies as a dental emergency?
When we're looking at dental emergency symptoms, some of the most common ones would be that you're having pain in your teeth or your gums. Another common one would be that you've maybe cracked or broken a tooth or a filling and it's sharp on your tongue or you're having sensitivity from the area. And then the last common one is signs of infection. So if there's an abscess that's going on, some swelling in your mouth, we definitely want to get that checked out as soon as possible. What I would recommend if we can't get in to see you right away at our office, or if it's on the weekend, is to maybe Google something like "emergency dentist near me." That would be a good time to seek emergency dental care.
What should I do if I lose a tooth?
When it comes to having a tooth knocked out in a lost tooth emergency, there are a few things that we can do in terms of trying to save a lost tooth. Number one would be to locate it and find it. Ideally, when you're picking it up from the ground, you want to only grab it by the crown of the tooth, which is the part that usually sticks out into your mouth. You don't want to grab it by the root because that can damage the root. Ideally, then you would assess it to see if there's any dirt or debris on the root, and you'd want to clean that off. Usually, the best solutions that we could use would be using milk, your own saliva, or a saline solution to get any of that debris off. Then, the next most important thing would be, if you can, to re-implant the tooth into the same position that it was in before. The sooner that you get that tooth back into your mouth, the better chance for success we'll have in retaining it in the long run. If you're not able to put it back in, then the next best option would be storing it in a solution, such as milk, saliva, or a saline solution, to help preserve the cells on the root so that we can re-implant it. Once you've done that, try to get in to see a dentist right away. The sooner you get in, the better the prognosis for the tooth. Ideally, we want to get it back in place within 60 minutes from the time it comes out. Those are the steps for knocked-out tooth care to ensure long-term retention of your tooth.
Can you treat a broken tooth in one visit?
When we're looking at a one-visit dental emergency, it really depends on the state of the tooth. For broken tooth treatments, they can range anywhere from smoothing off a small chip to addressing a large portion of the tooth that may require a root canal, a core, and a crown, which can take multiple visits to complete. Emergency repair options vary greatly depending on the individual's situation. The first step is to get you in right away for an assessment. We'll take some x-rays, take some pictures, and then discuss the options that will be best for you.
How do you handle dental emergencies after hours?
When it comes to after-hours emergencies, it mainly depends on the severity of the symptoms. If you can manage it with over-the-counter medication like Tylenol or Advil, or by using a gel like Orgel to numb the area, that would be preferred. If the situation is too severe and you're looking for an after-hours emergency dentist, you can search on Google to find someone available. However, it can be very difficult to find someone at night, so another option would be going to the hospital or urgent care, where they can help take care of you and possibly give you a prescription for something stronger. At our office, we always try to have a 24-hour dental care policy. Give us a call and leave a message, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. We aim to see emergencies within 24 hours to provide relief and address pain, with a focus on treatment later on.
What can I do to manage severe tooth pain at home until my appointment?
To relieve severe tooth pain, the main approach is to use painkillers to manage symptoms. Our go-to options are extra-strength Tylenol and extra-strength Advil. If the pain is severe, alternating between the two can provide the benefits of both medications to help relieve the pain more effectively. Additionally, using a gel like Oragel from the pharmacy can numb the area and reduce symptoms. If you need immediate emergency toothache relief, you could go to urgent care or find a 24-hour physician to get a prescription for something stronger. You can also leave us a message at our office, and we'll get back to you the next business day to try to resolve the issue as soon as possible. Those are the main home remedies for tooth pain.
What is considered a dental emergency?
A dental emergency would be anything that you as a patient are very worried about. The primary instances that we handle are when patients have a toothache, an infection and/or swelling, bleeding from their gums, or a cracked filling or crown. Even a dislodged crown is considered an emergency dental situation.
When do I need to see an emergency dentist versus going to an emergency room versus scheduling a regular dental appointment?
An emergency dental visit becomes necessary when you have a toothache, an infection or swelling, a cracked filling, or if something has fallen out of your mouth. If you have any of these concerns, we would want to see you right away to evaluate and address the issue.
You should go to an emergency room if you have large swelling, especially if it's in your neck, as this could potentially restrict your ability to breathe and become a life-threatening situation. If you're starting to develop a fever due to your dental infection, it indicates that the infection is spreading elsewhere in the body and needs immediate attention. Another critical symptom is trismus, which is the inability to open your mouth. If you're unable to open your mouth, it's a sign of a severe infection that requires immediate treatment. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should go to your nearest emergency room as soon as possible.
For routine visits, you should schedule these when you're not experiencing any pain or any issue. These visits are meant to maintain the health of your teeth and gums, and you can schedule them at any time by simply giving us a call at (204) 817-6768.
When faced with dental pain, it’s essential to find effective solutions that provide immediate relief and allow for a comfortable transition until you can visit a dentist. At Renew Dental, we understand that you deserve compassionate dental care tailored to your unique needs. Our supportive dental team is dedicated to helping all patients manage dental discomfort with expert advice and timely care.
For those experiencing toothaches, it's crucial to know that several toothache remedies are readily available to minimize discomfort. One simple yet effective method is using a warm saltwater rinse. This gentle technique can help soothe inflammation and promote healing in the affected area. We recommend mixing a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinsing your mouth several times a day for the best results.
In addition to rinses, applying a cold compress for swelling can create an immediate sense of relief. Position the cold compress on the outside of your cheek, where the pain is localized. This not only alleviates swelling but also numbs the area, providing you temporary comfort as you prepare to seek professional help.
If you're looking for over-the-counter pain relief, there are various options available. Products specifically formulated as numbing gels for teeth, like Orgel, can be particularly effective in managing discomfort from sensitive areas. Using these gels according to the package instructions allows for enhanced dental pain relief. However, it’s important to remember to avoid placing aspirin directly on your gums or teeth, as this can lead to further irritation and complicated issues.
When experiencing dental pain, head elevation can also play a critical role. Keeping your head elevated minimizes blood flow to the painful area, reducing discomfort and swelling. It’s advisable to lay back on pillows while trying to rest or sleep to alleviate pressure on your gums and teeth.
Dietary considerations during this period are paramount. Opt for soft, non-acidic food options to prevent additional irritation to your teeth and gums. Foods like yogurt, pudding, and smoothies provide nutrition without exacerbating your pain. Avoiding hard, crunchy, or spicy foods can significantly improve your comfort as you navigate this challenging time.
At Renew Dental, our commitment to compassionate dentistry is paramount. Our emergency dentistry services are designed to provide immediate assistance for urgent dental concerns, ensuring you receive the attention and care you need without delay. We prioritize your oral health solutions, especially when unexpected pain arises, providing patient-centered dental practice that goes above and beyond to accommodate your needs.
In addition to managing dental pain, we emphasize the importance of preventive dental checkups. Regular visits to our office for professional cleanings and examinations help catch potential issues before they escalate into painful emergencies. With Family Dental Services tailored to individuals and families of all ages, we focus on building strong relationships with our patients based on trust and personalized care.
For those seeking to enhance their smiles, our cosmetic dental treatments can also build confidence and improve your overall oral health. Whether it’s teeth whitening, veneers, or other cosmetic procedures, our team is here to support you through every step of your journey toward a healthier, brighter smile. Our restorative dentistry options, such as fillings and crowns, receive the same compassionate approach, ensuring that each patient feels at ease during their treatment.
Our holistic dental care philosophy emphasizes the connection between oral health and overall well-being. We believe that effective dental care goes hand in hand with taking care of your entire self. Our dedicated team at Renew Dental is proud to provide this comprehensive care that families in the community can rely on. Together, we will work closely with you to create a personalized plan that addresses your needs and aspirations.
What sets Renew Dental apart is our ability to focus on compassionate care while upholding a tradition of excellence. Our team's commitment to continuous education and improvement ensures that we use the latest techniques and materials to deliver quality care that resonates with our patients. The positive experiences of our patients, reflected in their testimonials, demonstrate our success in providing outstanding service and patient satisfaction.
If you're currently experiencing a dental issue, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. With our emergency dental services and a devoted supportive team at your side, you're never alone during these challenging moments. Let Renew Dental be your partner in achieving lasting relief, promoting your oral health, and fostering a smile you'll be proud to share. We’re here for you beyond just routine care, ensuring you have the right tools and knowledge for your ongoing dental health journey.