Dental emergencies can be disconcerting and sometimes, they can be downright scary. Not knowing what to do when a dental emergency occurs, can add to the anxiety and make the situation worse. However, having some knowledge of what classifies as a dental emergency and knowing what to do, can make a huge difference in saving a tooth or averting further damage. As dental professionals at High Desert Dental, we have put together this blog to inform our patients in Grand Junction CO and the surrounding areas about what constitutes a dental emergency and what to do.

When is it Considered a Dental Emergency?

The following issues warrant an immediate visit to the dentist:

• Severe or persistent toothache
• Knocked-out tooth
• Cracked, chipped, or broken tooth
• Loosened or displaced tooth
• Tissue injury (gums, tongue, cheeks, or lips) accompanied by bleeding that won’t stop
• Abscessed tooth
• Lost filling or crown
• Broken or loose dental appliance

While this list is not all-inclusive, if you are experiencing any of these dental emergencies, it is critical to contact your dentist near you immediately.

What to Do if You Have a Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth is a serious emergency that requires urgent dental care. If you lose a permanent tooth, try to locate the tooth and handle it carefully by the crown. Rinse it off with water and try to place it back in the socket. If you can’t manage to reinsert it, put it in a container filled with milk or water with a pinch of salt. Then, visit your dentist within 30 minutes.

What to Do if You Have a Severe Toothache

If you have a severe toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water, gently use dental floss to remove any food debris, and take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen. However, avoid aspirin as it can cause bleeding. If your toothache persists, consult your dentist.

How to Handle Tissue Injury

If you suffer tissue injury to your mouth, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater and apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling. In case of serious bleeding, contact your dentist or head to the ER immediately.

How to Prevent Dental Emergencies

Most dental emergencies are preventable. Preventing dental emergencies includes:

• Maintaining good oral hygiene
• Wearing a customized mouthguard when engaging in contact sports or other high-risk activities
• Avoiding hard, sticky, or chewy foods
• Avoiding chewing ice and hard candy
• Avoiding opening packages with your teeth.

Contact Us Today In Case of A Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies can happen at any time. By knowing what to do when dental emergencies occur, you can reduce pain and increase the likelihood of saving your tooth or averting further damage. At High Desert Dental in Grand Junction CO, we care about our patients’ dental health. If you have any concerns about dental emergencies, don’t hesitate to contact us.