By their definitions, dental emergencies are unexpected. Because they often involve structural damage to some degree, dental emergencies can pose a threat to your entire your oral health depending on the severity of the situation. If you diligently practice your oral hygiene routine in the hopes of preventing any damage to your oral health, then a dental emergency that threatens your smile can be even more unsettling. Luckily, you are not helpless in the face of a dental emergency, and with these tips from your Austin dentist, Dr. Van Wicklen, you may be able to keep your smile in one piece.
Take Immediate Action
- Sudden pain—Toothaches can stem from a number of issues, including tooth decay and gum disease as well as traumatic damage. If your tooth becomes painful all of a sudden, check to see if there is any visible damage. If not, then floss around the tooth carefully to remove any food debris that may be lodged. Call Dr. Van Wicklen as soon as possible to schedule an appointment, and use an ice pack or cold compress to reduce the discomfort.
- Chipped/Broken tooth—If a piece of your tooth breaks off, collect the piece as quickly as possible after rinsing your mouth with warm water. Wash the pieces (s) of your tooth, as well, and bring them with you to your emergency dental appointment. If pain is present, use an ice pack, or take over-the-counter pain medication to help manage the discomfort.
- Knocked out tooth—When a tooth is completely knocked out, there’s a good chance of saving it assuming the tooth is still in one piece. Rinse your mouth with water to clear the site of dirt and debris, then collect the tooth and rinse it as well. Take care not to handle the tooth by the roots and call Dr. Van Wicklen immediately. Replacing the tooth is possible, but must be done within an hour or so of losing the tooth.
Keep Your Smile Strong with Your Austin Dentist
If you have a dental emergency, or would like to learn more about protecting your oral health, speak with your Austin dentist as soon as possible. You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Van Wicklen by calling 512-448-3131. Located in the 78704 area, we proudly serve the cities of Austin, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Bastrop, Bee Cave, Cedar Park, and all surrounding communities.
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