Teeth First-Aid: What To Do In A Dental Emergency

What To Do In A Dental Emergency

On average, someone visits a hospital room with a dental emergency about every 15 seconds. Dental emergencies can be unexpected and very distressing, especially if you do not know how to deal with them. You may wonder if the dental problem you’re dealing with warrants a trip to the emergency dentist. Below are some guidelines to help you figure out the best course of action when dealing with a dental emergency.

What Are Dental Emergencies?

Dental checkups include routine cleanings, x-rays, and consultations every six months. Dental emergencies are anything but routine. Dental emergencies come when you least expect them. It is important to be aware that dental issues can become more severe if left untreated. Therefore, it is essential to distinguish between what is and what is not a dental emergency. 

Generally, a dental emergency is defined as any situation where your life is in jeopardy or the life of your tooth is in jeopardy. Furthermore, various conditions and illnesses can harm your dental health at any time, some more serious than others. Frequent examples of dental emergencies are:

  • An injury to a tooth or mouth area that bleeds

  • Teeth that have become loose or lost due to trauma 

  • Jaw injury

  • Painful swelling in or around the mouth

  • Excruciating toothaches

How Should Dental Emergencies Be Handled?

Regardless of the situation, if you experience severe pain, are bleeding profusely, suspect you have an infection, or if your tooth is cracked or damaged, contact your dentist for emergency dental care. Even if you only mildly suspect a dental emergency, it’s best to contact our office at the earliest available appointment time. 

If you have an emergency, we can arrange an appointment for you on the same day. If it’s not an emergency, at least we can put your mind at ease at the same time. Of course, we’d still be happy to make an appointment for you to rectify your situation.

Dealing With Dental Emergencies Before Visiting The Dentist

There are some simple things you can do to make handling dental emergencies easier. The most important thing is for the patient to remain calm. Failure to do so can actually make the problem worse. Before you go to the dentist, here are some simple steps you can take to reduce pain and bleeding:

  • Below are some of the most common dental emergencies.

  • Knock-out teeth: Prompt treatment may save a knocked-out tooth. Whatever the reason, if your tooth has been knocked out, please give us a call and we will arrange an appointment for you as soon as possible. Only touch or hold the top of the tooth, not the weak root. keep teeth clean (rinse but don’t scrub).

  • Cracked or broken tooth: Whether it is an emergency depends on its severity and whether you are in pain. Minor nicks or cracks can usually wait, but more serious damage should seek emergency treatment. Prompt treatment not only reduces pain but also prevents further complications. 

  • Tooth abscess: Infections anywhere on the body should be treated immediately. Your teeth and gums are no exception. If you experience severe pain or tenderness, it’s time to give us a call. Waiting for the infection to be treated will only lead to bigger problems later, including loss of the affected tooth.

  • Post-Operative Dental  Issues: If you’ve recently had a tooth extraction, root canal, filling, or other dental procedure, pay close attention to how you’re feeling. If you notice excessive bleeding, persistent or worsening pain, unusual swelling, or other problems after surgery, you should make an appointment with your emergency dentist right away. To avoid these problems and know what to look out for, follow your dentist’s instructions closely after the procedure.

If you experience a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to contact Vibrant Square Dental. We are committed to providing our patients and their families with the best care possible when accidents happen in Vaughan, Ontario. Call us at 905-553-3004 if you need help during a dental emergency. Our team will then provide the necessary care and book a follow-up appointment to ensure that any potential long-term damage is minimized.

New Patients Welcome!

Vibrant Square Dental values the personal relationships that we have with our patients. With your comfort and care as our first priority, we make it easy to get the treatment that you need! Our team stays abreast of the latest trends and technology to ensure that patients receive only the absolute best care.

We accept all insurances

New Patients Welcome!

Vibrant Square Dental values the personal relationships that we have with our patients. With your comfort and care as our first priority, we make it easy to get the treatment that you need! Our team stays abreast of the latest trends and technology to ensure that patients receive only the absolute best care.