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05
Jan
What to Do During a Dental Emergency
A dental emergency can happen without warning. Being prepared can mean the difference between saving a tooth or not, especially if your child is headed back to school and will be participating in sports. Whatever your situation, the following information will help you know how to handle three common dental emergencies: a knocked-out tooth, a chipped tooth, and a toothache.
1. Chipped Tooth
A hit to the face during a sporting event can lead to cracked or chipped teeth. Ease any mouth pain by applying an ice pack, rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater, or taking over-the-counter pain medication. If a chipped tooth is causing extreme pain or is cutting your mouth, seek emergency dental treatment. While minor chips aren’t usually a dental emergency, it’s possible the damage is more than a mere cosmetic issue. Small cracks and fissures can allow bacteria to reach the sensitive inner layer of your teeth called the pulp, resulting in sensitivity and infection. To be safe, schedule an appointment to have the damage evaluated by Dr. Jay. We also recommend getting all the young athletes in your home fitted with custom athletic mouthguards here at Scenic Bluffs Dental to provide their mouths with maximum protection and comfort during sports.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth
When a tooth gets knocked out, some quick thinking can greatly increase the chances of saving the tooth because reattachment must occur within the hour after injury! If possible, gently rinse the tooth with milk or water without rubbing or scrubbing it. Then place it back into its normal socket. If this can’t happen, then place the tooth in a glass of milk or between your cheek and gums while you seek professional treatment. Keeping the tooth moist and protected will improve the odds of your tooth surviving.
3. Toothache
Toothaches can range from minor inconveniences to painful emergencies. Sometimes toothaches are the result of trapped food that is irritating the surrounding area. In this case, gently floss and rinse with warm saltwater to remove the food. However, a severe toothache may indicate untreated decay or infection that requires immediate treatment. If you are experiencing a lot of pain, come see us as soon as possible.
Reach Out to Our Team!
To ask our team other questions about how to handle a dental emergency or to schedule your next visit to our office, contact us today.
Dr. Jay and Dr. Clare
Scenic Bluffs Dental is headed by the husband and wife duo, Dr. Jay Feuillerat and Dr. Samantha Clare.
Dr. Jay Feuillerat blends scientific expertise with an artistic touch to craft custom smiles. He earned his biology degree from the University of Minnesota-Duluth. and his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, where he was recognized for his exceptional work in prosthodontics and endodontics. Dr. Jay’s ongoing postgraduate education in contemporary, esthetic, and implant dentistry and digital dentistry highlights his commitment to providing reliable expert care. His dedication, passion, and experience make him a trusted authority in dental health.
Dr. Samantha Clare. has been passionate about dentistry since she was five. She earned her undergraduate degree in biology and management from St. Olaf College and her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Minnesota. Dr. Clare continually enhances her skills through advanced training in esthetic and implant dentistry, sedation dentistry, and more. Her involvement with the Spear Study Club and hands-on sessions with the Zimmer and Spear Institutes emphasize her commitment to evidence-based practice. Dr. Clare's dedication and expertise make her a trusted and authoritative figure in dentistry.
