Accidents and injuries can happen at any time, and knowing what to do when they occur can help prevent permanent damage to the teeth, or even losing them. Dental emergencies are often painful and require fast relief. Injury to the gums or teeth should never be ignored, even if the injury appears to be minor since blood vessels and nerves can be damaged, and the risk of infection is always present. Dental emergencies are not normally a threat to life, but injuries involving the mouth, teeth, or gums have the potential to be serious. These emergencies need immediate attention to repair the damage and help avoid more problems that can occur later. Delaying treatment for only a few days can cause the injury to worsen and elevate the pain to excruciating levels.
Common dental emergencies include trauma to the mouth, fractured or knocked out teeth, swelling, acute pain, damage to the gums, and excessive bleeding. In some instances, dental emergencies can lead to life-threatening infections, permanent damage, and even fatality if they are not immediately addressed. For all dental emergencies, it is important to contact an Emergency Dentist in Pomona as soon as possible. Most dentist offices set aside time in their schedules for emergencies. In the event of an after hours emergency, a physician at the hospital should be consulted for trauma to the mouth, severe bleeding, or acute pain.
The American Dental Association offers these tips for common dental emergencies. For a toothache, using warm water, rinse the mouth to remove any small particles. Dental floss can help remove food impacted between the teeth. If a tooth has been cracked or broken, rinse the mouth with warm water to help clean the area. A cold compress on the injury will help to keep the swelling reduced. Contact an Emergency Dentist immediately for follow up care. A tooth that has been knocked out should be held by the crown, and the root rinsed to remove dirt or debris. If possible, gently reinsert the tooth into the socket. If that is not possible, place the tooth in a cup of milk. Take the patient and tooth to an emergency dental professional as quickly as possible. Contact an Emergency Dentist in Pomona to answer treatment questions.
