Dental emergencies are never something we want to deal with. However, they could happen at any time. Dr. David J. Weinstock, a dentist in Bala Cynwyd, PA, offers emergency dentistry services to the Philadelphia area. So what do you do if you find yourself having a dental emergency?
What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency can be a variety of things. These include:
- A broken, chipped, or cracked tooth
- A broken crown or filling, or one that falls out
- Losing a tooth
- Severe tooth pain
- A broken dental appliance, like a bridge or denture
Any one of these things can be something that wrecks your day unexpectedly. And these are all things you shouldn’t wait to get fixed.
What Should I Do if I Have a Dental Emergency?
If you have a dental emergency, call our office immediately. We’ll get you in for an appointment as soon as possible. If you call after hours, leave a message and we’ll try and get you into the office the next day, as soon as possible. If it’s an extremely severe emergency, call 911.
There are various things you can do before your appointment. These things depend on what kind of emergency you’re experiencing. If you’re dealing with pain, place ice or a cold pack over the site of the pain. This should reduce swelling. Over the counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help keep the pain down until you can be seen.
If you lose a filling or crown, don’t attempt to put the restoration back in. If you can, find the restoration, as it may be able to be restored. If you can’t find it or it’s unable to be reused, Dr. Weinstock can fashion a new restoration to fit your needs.
When you lose a tooth, try to find the tooth that’s lost. Depending on timing, the tooth may be able to be reattached. Only pick up the tooth by the crown, and avoid touching the root structure. Rinse off the tooth, but don’t scrub it at all. The ADA recommends transporting it in a cup of milk or saliva to the dentist. If you can’t find the tooth or it can’t be reused, Dr. Weinstock can provide a solution, like a dental implant for instance.
If your denture or bridge breaks, it can usually be repaired. Try to bring the pieces of your restoration to your emergency dental appointment. Dr. Weinstock will examine the restoration and decide the best course of action for your treatment plan.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies can be prevented by taking proper care of your teeth. Make sure you’re seeing your Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania dentist regularly. This means making sure you go every six months.
You should also keep up an at-home oral health care routine. Brush and floss at least twice a day, preferably after every meal. Keep an eye on your diet and avoid eating or drinking things with too much sugar, or that are sticky or too hard.
Avoiding things like contact sports can also help you avoid dental emergencies. You can also get a customized mouthguard to protect your teeth when you’re playing sports. Doing things like attempting to open packaging with your teeth can also lead to a dental emergency. Make sure you’re always using the proper tools for your current activity.
Emergency Dentistry at Your Bala Cynwyd, PA Dentist
Dr. Weinstock and his compassionate staff are ready to help you with all of your dental emergency needs. Call us today or schedule an appointment online if you have a dental emergency or need preventative care.