What to Do When a Dental Emergency Happens

The unexpected has happened! You are experiencing a dental emergency and now wondering what to do next. From a young age, we have been taught what to do in case of a medical emergency – contact 911. But a dental emergency usually requires a different response. 

Rarely will you need an ambulance; however, you will have to act swiftly depending on the injury you have sustained. 

Below are some handy tips on how to react when facing a dental emergency in Palo Alto. 

Common Dental Emergencies and Ways to Handle Them 

Some of the most frequent types of emergencies that warrant seeing an emergency dentist in Palo Alto include, but are not limited to:   

A Broken or Fractured Tooth

A cracked tooth can result from biting into a hard candy, ice, or piece of food. Sometimes, a mouth injury might lead to a broken tooth. When this happens, clean the injured spot with warm water and place a cold compress against your cheek to ease the swelling. 

Call your Palo Alto dentist immediately to schedule an emergency appointment. Usually, a small chip can be fixed using a dental filling. On the other hand, a larger piece of a broken tooth can be restored with a dental crown. 

Severe Toothache 

There are several reasons for a toothache. It may be caused by a cracked filling, exposed dentin, a cavity that needs root canal treatment, or a worn-out enamel due to a teeth-grinding habit. Mild toothache can occur if there are food particles stuck between gums. 

Whenever you have a severe toothache, you should contact a dentist. You will get professional advice on whether prompt care is required. In the meantime, you may want to rinse your mouth with warm water. Place a cold compress on your cheeks if there is some form of swelling. You may also take some painkillers to ease the pain. 

Remember, this is only a temporary remedy as you plan your visit to the dentist. Toothaches are signs of a bigger problem, so don’t wait too long to book an appointment. 

Loss of Permanent Teeth 

If an injury leads to a loss of a permanent tooth, take prompt action. If possible, find the tooth. Do not touch the root. Instead, handle the tooth by its crown. Try to reattach it, if possible. You may have to hold it in place, though. In case you cannot reattach it successfully, preserve it in an emergency tooth preservation product or milk. Now rush to an emergency dentist near you.  

Mouth Injury

Some mouth injuries may require immediate medical attention. For example, if an impact results in jaw injury, keep your face as still as possible as you try to get fast emergency assistance. 

If you bite your lip, tongue, or cheek, gently clean the area with water. Stick a paper towel, wet pad, or a sterile cloth in the affected area until the bleeding stops. If the bleeding doesn’t cease after 15 minutes, call your emergency dentist in Palo Alto for further evaluation.   

Broken or Loose Wires from Braces 

Loose wires from braces can be irritating and may cause damage to the adjacent areas. Apply gauze or orthodontic wax to the loose wire, covering jagged or sharp ends. In case the wire gets stuck in the tongue, gum tissue, or cheek, don’t attempt to pull it out yourself. Visit your dentist immediately.  

Abscess 

An abscess is a painful bump (abnormal in color and size) that develops when you have a severe infection. Usually, the infection may originate from your gums or one of your teeth. It may present additional symptoms such as pain, facial swelling, sensitivity to temperatures, and fever. 

Abscesses must never be overlooked as the infection can quickly spread to other parts of the body. If you suspect you are ailing from this condition, please visit your emergency dentist in Palo Alto as soon as possible. Meanwhile, while waiting to be assessed, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater. This will help ease the pain and inflammation.    

Dentist vs. Hospital Visit During a Dental Emergency 

Whether or not you should visit a hospital or a dentist depends on your situation. The rule of thumb here is to call your dentist first. Most dentists have emergency hours and would be willing to assist you, regardless of their schedule.  

Dislocations, serious cuts, lacerations, or jaw fractures are situations where you would need to head to the emergency room. But remember, even as you opt for the emergency room, you will still have to make a follow-up consultation with your dentist soon after. 

In short, emergency room professionals are great; however, your teeth require a specialized level of treatment that can only be provided in a dental office.

Besides, according to the American Dental Association (ADA), visits to the hospital for dental pain range between $400 and $1,500.  A similar visit to the dental office costs between $90 and $200. Need we say more?   

Precautions to Avoid Dental Emergencies 

Following dental hygiene best practices is the most practical way to ensure that you don’t end up experiencing emergencies. Other precautions may include:

• Wearing a customized mouth guard during sporting activities and rough recreational activities. 
• Use scissors – not your teeth – to open or cut things. 
• Don’t chew hard ice, candy, and popcorn kernels. 
• Visit your dentist frequently and complete the recommended treatments. 

Final Thoughts on Dental Emergencies 

You may experience other emergencies besides the ones listed above; however, the protocol is nearly the same. Stay calm and keep in mind that a dental professional can easily address these conditions. 

It also never hurts to prepare for a dental emergency either.  Book a consultation with your emergency dentist in Palo Alto today, and they will guide you on what to do if the unexpected happens. 

At Cambridge Dental Studio, we provide priority appointments for dental emergencies. Our dentists offer same-day dental appointments in Palo Alto and are highly proficient in quickly diagnosing the underlying issues that are causing you discomfort and provide quick relief. Please call our office at 650.382.3068 to schedule a time so you can come quickly and be seen by a trained emergency, same-day dentist in Palo Alto.