Sometimes life throws a curve-ball, and accidents can happen! In the event of a dental emergency, Dr. Schultz and her team are here to help solve the issue. Even if we’re not in the office, you can contact us via our emergency phone number for any treatment needs, and we will respond to your request as soon as possible!

Dental Trauma

If you or your child has a tooth knocked out, this is a dental emergency! If it’s a baby tooth, it’s important to see us as soon as possible—preferably within the first 30 minutes following the event.  Damage to primary (baby) teeth can sometimes cause damage to permanent (adult) teeth, and it’s important for us to check these areas following any kind of trauma.

If it’s an adult tooth, it’s very important to keep the tooth moist.  If the tooth is intact, and isn’t broken, it’s best to insert the tooth back into its socket (holding the tooth by the top (crown) and not the root).  If the tooth looks dirty, you can rinse it gently with water before you insert it.  If this isn’t possible, you can place the tooth in your cheek, under your tongue, or in milk or water. Then, be sure to contact us as soon as possible, as treatment for dental trauma is time-sensitive.

Broken or Cracked Teeth

A broken or cracked tooth can also be a dental emergency. If this occurs, you should rinse your mouth with warm water and place a cold compress on your face to help minimize any swelling.  Then, contact us as soon as possible so we can treat the area and relieve your pain!

Dental Abscess

A dental abscess (infection) can cause swelling in the gums, and look similar to a small bubble on your gum tissue.  If you notice an abscess, rinse your mouth with salt water and contact us as soon as you can. Abscesses can sometimes cause serious infections, if not treated quickly!

Toothache

If you are experiencing a toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water. Using dental floss can also help to clean out any food or debris that could be causing the pain. If the pain persists, contact us as soon as you can so that we can evaluate the area and relieve your pain!

Bitten Tongue or Lip

If you have severely bitten your tongue or lip, clean the area gently, and apply a cold compress to reduce any swelling. If any bleeding persists, see us as soon as possible!

Lost Dental Crown or Filling

If a dental crown or filling has been lost, call us to schedule an appointment.  If possible, bring your crown with you to your appointment so that we can fully evaluate the area in question, and determine whether or not we will be able to re-cement your existing crown.

Tips to Avoid Dental Emergencies

There are some simple precautions that can be taken to avoid injuries to the teeth. These include:

  • Wear a mouth guard when participating in contact sports or recreational activities.
  • Avoid hard substances that can crack a tooth—such as ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candy.
  • Do not use your teeth to open or cut things—use scissors instead!

If you have a dental emergency, contact Dr. Schultz and her team as soon as possible, so that we can relieve your pain and reduce the risk for any permanent damage to your teeth, bones, and/or tissue.