AT BREI COSMETIC AND FAMILY DENTISTRY, WE CARE ABOUT EVERY aspect of your oral health. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to avoid emergencies ALL the time. So , just to be safe let’s take a few minutes to talk about dental emergency preparedness… Although it may not seem like a minor thing to you, a dental injury to your teeth or gums can be potentially serious, and should not be ignored. Otherwise, you run the risk of more serious damage and extensive repair down the road.
Here are some of our team’s thoughts about common emergencies:
Toothache?
Rinse your mouth out with warm water and make sure nothing is lodged. Apply an ice pack to reduce the swelling if needed, and call us as soon as possible. We probably need to take a look.
Chipped & Broken Tooth?
We know it sounds kinda gross, but be sure to save the pieces of the tooth if you can. Apply gauze pressure if bleeding. See Dr. Brei as soon as you can.
A Knocked Out Tooth?
“Time is of the essence” in trying to save a tooth. (watch the video below) [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjy1tbgmuN0&fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0] A Dislodged Tooth? If you’re experience pain, a cold compress can be applied. Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. Call us, and come see us right away.
Something Caught Between Your Teeth?
First attempt to gently remove it with dental floss, NOT a sharp object. If you’re unsuccessful, call us right away.
Lose A Filling?
Set up an appointment to come in. Believe it or not, as a temporary measure until you can get in here to see us, you can stick a piece of sugarless chewing gum into the hole!
Lost A Crown?
Come see us and bring the crown! In the meantime, try to slip the crown back in if possible, or use a cotton swab to apply some clove oil to the sensitive area.
Broken Braces Wires?
If the wire is poking you try using the eraser end of a pencil to push it back into a comfortable position. If that doesn’t work, cover it with orthodontic wax or a piece of gauze until you can see us or your orthodontist. DO NOT try to cut the wire, as you could end up swallowing it or breathing it in. ______________________________ Be careful! And wear a mouthguard to help prevent an injury! We want you to keep your teeth—FOR LIFE! Don’t forget to connect with us on Facebook by clicking the “Like” button! We look forward to seeing you again soon (but hope it’s not for an emergency)!
