Some Thoughts About Dental Emergencies

AT CROSSROADS DENTAL ARTS, WE CARE ABOUT EVERY aspect of your oral health. Unfortunately, no matter how careful all of us are, or how much we try, sometimes life hands us emergencies. It’s a fact. So we just wanted to touch on dental emergencies for a minute…

Although it may seem like a minor thing to you, a dental injury to your teeth or gums should not be ignored as it can be potentially serious—with risks of more permanent damage, OR more extensive (and expensive) repair down the road.

Here are some thoughts from Dr. Rief and her team:

Toothache?

Rinse with warm water and be sure nothing is lodged. Apply an ice pack if needed to reduce the swelling, and call us as soon as possible. We probably need to take a look.

Lose A Filling?

Believe it or not, as a temporary measure until you can get in here to see us, you can stick a piece of sugarless chewing gum into the hole. Then, call us!

Lost A Crown?

Come in as soon as possible and be sure to bring the crown. In the meantime, slip the crown back in if you can, or use a cotton swab to apply a little clove oil to the sensitive area.

Chipped & Broken Tooth?

Although it may sound sorta gross, save the pieces of the tooth if you can. Apply gauze pressure if you’re bleeding. See us as soon as you can.

A Tooth Knocked Out?

“Time is of the essence” in trying to save a tooth. (watch the video below)

A Dislodged Tooth?

Apply a cold compress to help if there’s pain. Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. Call us, and get in here to see us right away.

Something Caught Between Your Teeth?

Gently try dental floss first, and never use a sharp object. If you can’t dislodge it, call us right away.

Broken Brace Wire?

If the wire sticks out and is poking you (ouch), try using the eraser end of a pencil to push the wire into a comfortable position. If you can’t do that, cover it with orthodontic wax or a piece of gauze until you can see us or your orthodontist. Don’t try to cut the wire, as you could end up swallowing it or (worse) breathing it in.
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Hey, be careful out there! And wear a mouthguard to help prevent an injury! We want to help you keep ALL of your teeth—FOR LIFE!

Don’t forget, if you haven’t already, to become a fan of our FACEBOOK page by clicking the “Like” button! We look forward to your next visit to our office (but hopefully NOT an emergency!).

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