While keeping to a regular oral healthcare routine, you may think you’re safe from dental issues. But a dental emergency can happen to anyone. The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry is a provider of emergency dentistry in Skokie, IL. Learn more about how to handle a dental emergency if it happens to you.
What is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is something that happens to your teeth that needs immediate attention and can’t wait for a regular appointment. If this happens to you, call our office immediately. Below is a list of common dental emergencies and what you should do until you’re able to be seen in our office.
Tooth Pain
Tooth pain, especially if it’s severe or sharp, isn’t something that’s normal. It can be caused by a variety of reasons, including trauma, an infection, or tooth decay. Many times, you don’t know what the cause is until it’s diagnosed by a professional. Utilize over the counter pain medication to tame the pain and a cold compress if you experience any swelling.
Knocked-Out Tooth
It’s natural to want to panic when an adult tooth is knocked out. But you should try to remain as calm as possible so you can properly retrieve the tooth. Make sure you don’t touch the tooth root and only pick it up by the crown. Gently rinse off any dirt or debris that’s accumulated on the tooth, but avoid scrubbing. Place your tooth in a cup of milk or your own saliva to try to preserve it.
When you arrive at the office, the dentist will analyze your tooth and determine if it’s viable to put back in your mouth. If it isn’t, don’t panic too much. Our office offers multiple ways to replace missing teeth. In particular, we recommend dental implants. There’s a reason they’re considered the gold standard of tooth replacement.
Damaged Dental Restoration
The advice for a damaged dental restoration is different for each restoration you may have. If you have a denture, partial, or dental bridge that’s damaged, make sure you retrieve as many pieces of it as possible. On occasion, the dentist may be able to repair your restoration instead of replacing it.
If you lose or damage a dental crown, again retrieve as many pieces as possible. However, many times a dental crown is unable to be repaired and will require one that’s completely new. Never try to put your crown back in or attempt to secure it to the tooth it was on. A temporary crown can be affixed until a new permanent restoration is ready.
Emergency Dentistry in Skokie, Illinois
If you think you’re having a dental emergency, please call our office immediately. For other concerns, you can call us or schedule an appointment online!