Dental health encompasses more than yearly exams and maintaining proper oral hygiene; it also includes effectively managing oral health crises.
While the emergency room (ER) might be the first thought during a severe injury, dental traumas—such as avulsed (knocked out) teeth, fractured teeth, or gum injuries – necessitate specialized care. Opting for emergency dental services at dental clinics instead of heading to the ER can offer several advantages. You’ll receive care directly from dental professionals, potentially reducing your wait time compared to a hospital’s ER.
Below, our Emergency Dentists at Brentwood Village Dental outline what qualifies as a dental emergency and the steps to take should you encounter one.
Dental Emergency Tips
Toothaches – Rinse, floss, apply a cold compress, and call Brentwood Village Dental immediately for guidance and care.
Broken/Chipped Tooth – Save any pieces, rinse your mouth, apply gauze and a cold compress.
Knocked-Out Tooth – Handle by the crown, rinse gently, attempt to reinsert, keep moist, and seek immediate dental attention.
Dislodged Tooth – Apply a cold compress for pain, avoid touching the root, and see us as soon as possible.
Object Stuck Between Teeth – Use floss to remove gently; if unsuccessful, do not use sharp objects!
Missing Crown – Secure the crown temporarily with dental cement and schedule an urgent visit with us for a permanent solution.
Missing Filling – Temporarily fill the gap with dental cement or sugar-free gum and contact us for a proper replacement.
Broken Braces – Adjust protruding wires with a pencil eraser, cover with wax, and arrange for repairs without cutting the wire.
Abscess – Rinse with salt water to alleviate pain and contact Brentwood Village Dental immediately for urgent care.
Soft Tissue Injury – Rinse with salt water, apply moistened gauze with pressure, use a cold compress, and seek immediate medical attention if bleeding persists.
Act Quickly, but Don’t Panic
In the face of a dental emergency, swift action is crucial. However, it’s equally important to remain calm. Panic can cloud your judgment, making it harder to take the necessary steps. Take a deep breath, assess the situation, and prepare to seek emergency dental services.
Assess the Situation
Identify the nature of the emergency. Common dental emergencies include severe toothache, chipped or broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, lost fillings or crowns, and abscesses. Understanding the problem will help explain the situation when you call for help.
Seek Professional Help Immediately
The sooner you get professional advice and treatment, the better the chances of a favourable outcome. Many dental practices in Calgary offer emergency dental services designed to address your needs quickly and efficiently.
Prevention is Key
The best way to handle a dental emergency is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Regular dental check-ups, maintaining good oral hygiene, and wearing protective gear during sports can significantly reduce the risk of dental emergencies.
Facing Dental Emergencies with Confidence
Handling a dental emergency effectively requires quick thinking, calm actions, and the support of experienced emergency dentists. By following these tips, you can more confidently handle these stressful situations, ensuring the best possible outcome for your oral health.
At Brentwood Village Dental, we offer emergency dental treatment in our fully-equipped emergency dental clinic. If you’re experiencing or suspect you have a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
