Are you prepared for a dental emergency?

emergency dentist SouthlakeThe best way to deal with any emergency is to be prepared for it. A dental problem is not something easily planned for; but how you react to a broken tooth, a swollen jaw, bleeding due to trauma, and tooth pain can make the difference between an easily resolved situation and one that results in a long-term and time consuming solution. The first step in preparing for a dental emergency is to know who to contact … your emergency dentist contact information should always be readily available for when the unthinkable happens.

What Constitutes a Dental Emergency? 

If you awaken with throbbing tooth pain or a swollen jaw, you might be dealing with a tooth infection. This can be due to a hairline crack in a tooth that allows bacteria to reach the interior of the tooth’s roots. If this occurs, a call to your dentist is your first step. However, if this happens on a weekend or when your family dentist’s office is closed, that emergency dentist contact information is important.

A trauma that results in excessive bleeding is always scary … apply a compress and if bleeding doesn’t stop, don’t hesitate to contact the dentist or, if necessary, visit the nearest emergency room.

If a tooth should be knocked out, try to replace the tooth in the socket and hold in place. If this isn’t possible, place the tooth in a glass of milk or a Save-A-Tooth solution. You have a window of about one hour to see the dentist for your best opportunity to save the tooth.

How Do I Find an Emergency Dentist?

This is where preparation comes in … your family dentist usually has that information available. But certainly don’t wait until you need it. Contact your dentist today to obtain that important information.

Great dental health might help to prevent some dental problems that could lead to potential emergency situations. Cut back or eliminate sugary foods and beverages, and don’t use tobacco in any form.

Another excellent way to support healthy teeth and gums is by brushing twice every day with a fluoridated toothpaste, flossing to remove what your toothbrush missed, and visiting our team at Tate Family Dentistry every six months to have teeth cleaned and a dental exam performed to detect potential problems that can be corrected before they have a chance to escalate.

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