Six common dental emergencies and what to do

A dental emergency can happen anytime, and it is wise to be prepared for the unexpected. Dr. Darlene Davis is an endodontist at Soft Touch Endodontics and deals daily with emergency dental care for patients looking for a professional “near me” in the Suwanee, Georgia community and beyond. Let’s look at some common dental concerns and how to manage them.

Six common dental emergencies and how to handle them

1. Sudden and sustained toothache. It’s a regular day when, suddenly, a toothache makes an uninvited appearance. This can be caused by anything from stuck food to a hidden cavity. To ensure no debris is causing the pain, rinse your mouth with warm water and then lightly floss. If the pain continues, over-the-counter pain relief can help until you reach a dental professional.
2. A cracked or chipped tooth. You’re crunching on popcorn when—oops—something feels wrong! A cracked tooth can definitely throw a wrench in your day. Rinse your mouth with warm water, and if there’s swelling, grab a cold compress to reduce it. Avoid chewing on the affected side, and call your dental provider as soon as possible!
3. A lost restoration like a filling or dental crown. Losing a filling or a crown can feel like losing a big problem, exposing the tooth underneath to possible infection. Attempt to temporarily hold the crown in place with dental cement found over-the-counter. If you have lost a filling, chew sugar-free gum for a temporary patch.
4. Knocked-out tooth. Whether it’s a sports mishap or an embarrassing slip, losing a tooth does not always mean the end for it. First, locate the tooth, handle it by the crown (never the root!), and gently rinse it with water. If possible, place it back in the socket and keep it there until you can see your dentist. Otherwise, keep it in milk or saliva to keep it moist. Quick action within 30-60 minutes can make all the difference.
5. Biting the tongue or lip. Biting your tongue or lip might not feel like a big deal until it’s painful or bleeding. Gently clean the area with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Contact your dental professional if the bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 minutes.
6. Something stuck between the teeth that cannot be dislodged. Try gently removing the intruder with dental floss, but don’t poke with sharp objects like toothpicks. If you cannot dislodge it, visit a dentist or endodontist for further assistance.

Who can I reach to get emergency dental treatment near me?

Suwanee, GA, area patients are urged to stay calm during dental emergencies, and remember—our professionals always have your back! Dr. Darlene Davis of Soft Touch Endodontics can assist. Call (770) 212-9771 to request an appointment at 1120 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Suite #205.

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