Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Emergencies

A dental emergency often occurs unexpectedly, causing pain, discomfort, and anxiety. Knowing how to handle dental emergencies promptly and effectively in Denton, Texas, will play a huge role in preserving oral health and minimizing complications. Knowing who to contact is critical for urgent care. Drs. K Favero and Stephen Blake Favero at Favero Family Dental welcome patients with dental emergencies.

Here are answers to some common questions about dental emergencies:

1. What qualifies as a dental emergency? Dental emergencies include situations requiring immediate attention to help with pain, avoid future damage, or save a tooth. Examples include severe toothaches, knocked-out teeth, broken or fractured teeth, oral infections, abscesses, severe gum bleeding, and injuries to the mouth or jaw.
2. What should I do if I experience a severe toothache? If you find yourself in pain due to a toothache, you should first use a warm water rinse before gently flossing around the tooth, giving you pain so that any trapped debris can be removed. You should reach out to a dentist as soon as you can schedule an emergency appointment and receive appropriate treatment for the underlying cause of the toothache.
3. What should I do if I knock out a tooth? If a tooth is knocked out of your mouth, you should handle it carefully by the crown (top) while avoiding contact with the tooth’s root. Rinse the tooth with cool water to remove dirt or debris, but be careful not to scrub or remove attached tissues. If possible, try to gently place the tooth back into its socket. If not feasible, place the tooth in a container of milk and seek immediate dental care. Time is critical when trying to save a tooth.
4. How should I manage a broken or fractured tooth? Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area, and press a cold compress to the outside of your face to reduce swelling. Apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze or cloth if there’s bleeding. You will want to collect any tooth fragments you can find before promptly seeking emergency dental care as soon as possible. Depending on the extent of the fracture, your dentist may recommend bonding, crowns, or other restorative treatments to repair the tooth.
5. What should I do if I have a dental abscess or infection? Dental abscesses or infections require prompt attention to prevent the spread of bacteria and alleviate pain. Rinse your mouth with salt water to help reduce swelling and discomfort. Avoid applying heat to the affected area, as it can exacerbate the infection. Contact your dentist immediately for evaluation and treatment, which may include antibiotics, drainage of the abscess, or root canal therapy.
6. How can I prevent dental emergencies? While some dental emergencies are unavoidable, you can reduce the risk by practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding chewing on hard objects or ice, wearing mouthguards during sports or physical activities, and attending regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Additionally, wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth can help prevent tooth fractures and injuries while sleeping.
7. Is it safe to use over-the-counter pain medications for dental pain? Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate dental pain temporarily until you can see a dentist. Follow the recommended dosage instructions and avoid applying aspirin directly to the gum tissues, as it may cause irritation. However, pain medications do not address the underlying cause of dental pain, so seeking professional dental care for proper diagnosis and treatment is essential.

Drs. Favero at Favero Family Dental are here to help you with your dental emergency. To schedule an appointment in Denton, TX, please call (940) 566-2847.

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