Due to the increased stress of the COVID-19 pandemic, dental emergencies are more likely. There are more pressure and stress being taken out on our teeth, whether we realize it or not. So what should you do if you’re experiencing a dental emergency? Dr. Jose Gil of Hamilton Dental Designs, a dentist in Allentown, PA, has some tips.
Handling a Dental Emergency
If you find yourself with a dental emergency, it’s important to call us immediately. We want to get you seen in the office as soon as possible. Below are some common dental emergencies and what you can do to help until you get to our office.
Severe Tooth Pain
Tooth pain isn’t something to mess around with, especially if it comes on suddenly or is sharp. It can be caused by a number of conditions. These include extreme tooth decay, trauma, an infection, or an abscess. For many conditions of tooth pain, it can be hard to tell the exact cause until it’s examined by a dentist. Use over the counter pain medication to ease the pain and a cold compress if you have any swelling.
Knocked-Out Tooth
It’s important to make sure you don’t panic when an adult tooth is knocked out. Instead, calmly retrieve the tooth, making sure to pick it up only by the crown and avoid touching the tooth root. Gently rinse it off, without any scrubbing. Place the tooth in a cup of milk or your own saliva to help preserve it. Never try to put it back into the socket by yourself.
When you have your appointment, bring the tooth with you. Dr. Gil will examine the tooth and determine if it’s viable for replacement. If not, you don’t have to worry. Our office offers many forms of replacement for missing teeth. In particular, our office specializes in dental implants. These are the most natural feeling and looking tooth replacement option for your smile.
Broken, Chipped, or Cracked Tooth
If you’re lucky when you chip your tooth, it may just be a small cosmetic issue. When it gets worse, though, it’s considered a dental emergency. A chip or break of a large part of your tooth can expose the tooth pulp and nerves and cause a ton of pain. Dr. Gil will look and decide which restorative option is best for helping your tooth. This can include dental bonding, porcelain veneers, or a dental crown.
A crack in the tooth can also expose the tooth pulp. This can allow harmful bacteria to get inside the pulp of the tooth. An infection in this area is what leads to the need for a root canal. It’s important to get this remedied as soon as possible. Never try to glue the tooth back together.
Your Dentist in Allentown, Pennsylvania
We’re here to help any issues you might have due to the stress of the pandemic. Call us or schedule an appointment online for an appointment!