How To Handle Common Dental Emergencies While Seeking An Emergency Dentist

Finding yourself in the middle of a dental emergency can be a stressful and angst-ridden situation. Knowing how to respond quickly while waiting to see an emergency dentist in the Bardstown, Kentucky, area can truly help your situation and emotional state. If you are seeking an emergency dentist “near me” in Bardstown, you can reach out to Dr. Michael Walton and the team at Walton Family Dentistry. In the meantime, if you find yourself in the middle of a dental emergency like a severe toothache, here are some steps you can take.

Severe Toothaches

A sudden and intense toothache can leave you debilitated. Rinse your mouth with clean, lukewarm water, gently floss around the tooth to dislodge any trapped food particles, and take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums, as this can cause irritation. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to identify the underlying cause.

Knocked Out Tooth

If a tooth is knocked out, handle it by the crown (avoid handling it by the root), and rinse the tooth gently with clean, cool water. If you can, try to gently place the tooth back into the socket or place the tooth in a container of milk (or water, if milk is not available). It is very important that the tooth does not stay dry. Seek immediate dental attention, as time is crucial for successful re-implantation.

Cracked or Broken Tooth

If your tooth is cracked or broken, use warm water to rinse your mouth and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Save any fragments of the broken tooth and visit your dentist as soon as possible. They will assess the damage and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include bonding, a crown, or other restorative measures.

Lost Filling or Crown

If a filling or crown falls out, keep it and schedule an appointment with your dentist. In the meantime, you can apply dental cement, available at pharmacies, to temporarily cover the affected tooth. Avoid using superglue, as it can cause additional problems.

Abscess or Swelling

An abscess is a bacterial infection causing swelling and pus formation. Rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution and use a cold compress to alleviate swelling. Contact your dentist promptly, as abscesses require professional intervention and may necessitate antibiotics.

Call Us Today!

While it will help to be prepared if you ever find yourself in an emergency dental situation, finding an emergency dentist near you is one of the first steps you should take.

To reach Dr. Michael Walton and the team at Walton Family Dentistry, please call (502) 610-0151.