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5 Things to Consider Before Going to an Emergency Dentist

Emergencies can happen, even in oral health. Therefore, patients should know where to go in case a problem arises. Knowing where to go to receive the necessary care is essential, whether it’s a toothache, a chipped or broken tooth, or any other type of dental emergency.

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, it is essential to seek treatment right away. The longer you wait, the more likely the situation could become worse. But what should patients consider before going to an emergency dentist? Here are some ideas.

1. Assess Injury Extent

Before going to an emergency dentist, it is essential to assess the extent of the injury. Sometimes, a toothache may be caused by something minor and can be resolved with painkillers. But if the pain persists and is accompanied by swelling, it could be a sign of a more severe infection.

Knowing the severity of your dental emergency will determine the best course of action for getting the necessary treatment. If you’re ever unsure of the extent of your injury, it is best to err on the side of caution and seek immediate medical attention.

2. Store Broken or Dislodged Tooth

If a tooth is broken or knocked out, try to find the pieces and store them in a clean container. If the tooth is still in the mouth, it is essential to keep it moist by placing the tooth in a container of milk or saliva. Proper storage can ensure the tooth stays alive and ready for replanting on the gums.

Once you have found the tooth, it is important to rinse it off with cold running water. Do not scrub or handle the tooth too much, as it can damage it. Make sure to keep the root of the tooth intact. The best way to store the tooth is in a cup of milk or a container with a saline solution.

3. Seek Emergency Help

Seeking emergency help after experiencing oral trauma should help save the tooth and the jaw bone from further damage. Although it is a frightening experience for most people, it is essential to seek emergency help as soon as possible. When it comes to oral trauma, time is vital.

Emergency dental care can help repair chipped and broken teeth and restore a knocked-out tooth to its socket. If the trauma is more severe, such as a broken jaw, emergency help can relieve pain and proper treatment to prevent further damage.

4. Check For Bleeding

After experiencing oral trauma, checking for bleeding from the mouth or gums is essential. If you find any, apply pressure to the area with a clean cloth or tissue for about 15 minutes. If the bleeding does not stop, seek emergency help immediately.

If you can see blood, cleaning the wound and applying pressure to the area with a clean cloth or gauze to stop the bleeding is essential. If the bleeding does not stop after a few minutes, you may need medical attention.

5. Monitor Swelling

Swelling is a common symptom of oral trauma and can be a sign of a more severe injury. Monitor the area for any signs of swelling, and if it appears, apply a cold compress to the site. See medical attention if the swelling does not decrease after a few days.

Conclusion

Oral trauma can be a severe injury that requires medical attention. Taking the necessary steps to clean the wound, stop the bleeding, and monitor for swelling is essential. If the damage does not improve with self-care, seek medical attention immediately.

Manassas Smiles is a dental clinic specializing in emergency services. As the emergency dentist in Manassas, we aim to alleviate the early signs of oral health problems until they can get the needed treatment or procedures. Learn more about tooth extraction through a local dentist by booking an appointment on our website today.

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