You wouldn’t put off dealing with a broken bone, so why delay treatment for a broken or ? Urgent dental emergencies have to be taken seriously or you can greatly compromise your overall oral health. Our Ocala, FL, emergency dentist urges patients experiencing discomfort as a result of a dental infection or injury to reach out and seek care so we can administer appropriate treatment.
Here’s what you need to do when faced with a dental emergency.
Common Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies can be distressing and often require immediate, prompt attention to avoid further complications like spreading infection or additional tooth loss. Though it may be difficult at the moment, it’s important to keep calm and act accordingly depending on your specific situation.
Toothaches
One emergency that happens for a lot of people is a toothache. Often caused by factors such as dental decay or infection, the symptoms may range from mild discomfort to severe pain. Immediate at-home care, such as rinsing the mouth with warm water or using over-the-counter pain relievers, can offer temporary relief. However, it is essential to call our Ocala dental office to address the underlying cause.
Knocked-Out Teeth
Having a tooth knocked out also demands swift action. If a tooth is dislodged, we recommend gently rinsing it with water and trying to reinsert it into the socket if possible. If you can’t accomplish this, place the tooth in milk or a tooth preservation kit to help preserve it until you make it to our office. Time is of the essence in such cases, as re-implantation is most successful 30 minutes to an hour after the tooth has been knocked out.
Broken Teeth
A broken or chipped tooth is a common occurrence, often resulting from accidents or trauma. While temporary solutions like dental wax or over-the-counter dental cement may provide interim relief, professional intervention is necessary for a lasting solution. Dr. Pruitt can employ various procedures, such as dental crowns, root canals, veneers, or cosmetic bonding to restore the tooth’s appearance and function.
Dental Abscess
Lastly, abscesses (gum tissue swelling) in the mouth can indicate an infection that can pose a risk to the rest of the body if not treated in time. Recognizing signs such as persistent pain, swelling, and pus discharge is crucial. Emergency dental care may involve drainage of the abscess, prescription of antibiotics, and further treatment to address the root cause.
Seek Urgent Care for Your Smile
Our , takes pride in educating patients about common dental emergencies because when they’re informed, they’re more likely to take appropriate actions at home and seek professional dental care promptly. Call Pruitt Dentistry today at 352.732.3985 or for less urgent matters, request an appointment online.
