A tooth can be knocked out, become cracked, chipped or broken, or toothache can occur at any time. Dental emergencies are never convenient, but it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible in order. What happens if your dental emergency occurs when your dentist is closed?
Scott Kupetz, D.M.D offers 24 hour emergency dental care in Wappinger Falls and Pawling, NY, so no matter what time of the day or night you need dental care, you can count on us to help you.
What is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation that occurs with your teeth that needs to be treated immediately. Though they may affect the way your mouth looks, dental emergencies aren’t just cosmetic, rather, they are serious issues that can permanently impact the health of your mouth if they are not treated immediately.
Some of the most common dental emergencies include the following:
- A displaced tooth. When a tooth has been knocked into the mouth and becomes displaced within the gums, it has to be put back into its proper location as quickly as possible. There’s a possibility that the roots could be exposed and if the tooth is not treated, the roots can die, which will ultimately cause the entire tooth to die. If your tooth becomes displaced, you can try to put it back into its original position with light pressure; however, do not force it, as doing so could cause more damage and pain.
- A knocked out tooth. When a tooth is suddenly knocked out of the mouth, emergency dental care is a necessity. The blood vessels, tissues and nerves that surround the tooth could be damaged and if it is not addressed immediately, the tooth could be permanently lost. However, with emergency dental care, there is an increased likelihood that the tooth can be saved. If your tooth is knocked out, rinse it off and gently place it back into the socket, holding it in place until you see the dentist. If you cannot put the tooth back in place, put it in a container and bring it with you to your emergency dental appointment.
- Lost filling or crown. A filling or a crown can fall out for a number of reasons, and when it does, the tooth can become very sensitive, which can cause a great deal of pain. With emergency dental care, the filling or crown can be replaced, which will ease the pain and prevent any further damage from occurring. Avoid biting down and take an over-the-counter pain reliever (not asprin) to ease any pain.
- Cracked or fractured tooth. If a tooth becomes cracked or fractured, it can cause significant pain and the tooth can become permanently damaged if immediate dental care is not provided. Gently rinse out your mouth with warm water. If there is any pain, apply a cold compress to the site and take acetaminophen to ease it.
- Tissue damage. Any injury inside the mouth that causes bleeding and pain, such as a puncture wound to the gums or a laceration on the inside of the cheek, is also a dental emergency. These types of injuries can cause severe bleeding, pain and damage to the mouth, which is why emergency dental care is needed. Gently rinse your mouth with warm water and apply pressure to the bleeding with a piece of gauze.
- A loose adult tooth. When an adult tooth becomes loose, an emergency dentist can determine the cause of the problem and treat it to help avoid permanent loss. Try to hold the tooth in place, but be careful not to apply too much pressure, as doing so can cause even more damage.
What to Expect During an Emergency Dental Appointment
During your appointment, Dr Kupetz will conduct a thorough assessment of the problem area. He will diagnose the problem and perform the necessary procedures to repair any damage as quickly as possible, saving the tooth, relieving pain, stopping bleeding, or all three.
Once the emergency has been addressed, Dr Kupetz will schedule a re-evaluation for his existing patients. For new patients, he will schedule a comprehensive follow-up exam.
If you experience any type of dental emergency, contact Dr Kupetz as soon as possible. Offering emergency dental services 24 hours a day, Dr Kupetz and his team will provide you with the care that you need, whenever you need it.
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