Dental Emergencies

Dental Emergency

If you have a dental emergency call Dr. Richard L. Dailey DDS, at 336-513-0576. Most dental emergencies are treated at the time of your appointment. Here are some practical tips for handling dental emergencies.

There are a number of simple precautions you can take to avoid accident and injury to your teeth. One way to reduce the chances of damage to your teeth, lips, cheek and tongue is to wear a mouth guard when participating in sports or recreational activities that may pose a risk. Avoid chewing ice, popcorn kernels and hard candy, all which can crack a tooth. Cut tape using scissors rather than your teeth.

Accidents do happen, and knowing what to do when one occurs can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth.

Bitten Lip or Tongue

Clean the area gently with a cloth and apply cold compresses to reduce any swelling. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, go to a hospital emergency room immediately.

Broken Tooth

Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Use cold compresses on the area to keep any swelling down. Call Dr. Richard L. Dailey DDS, immediately at 336-513-0576.

Jaw-Possibly Broken

Apply cold compresses to control swelling and call Dr. Richard L. Dailey DDS, immediately at 336-513-0576.

Knocked Out Tooth

Hold the tooth by the crown and rinse off the remaining tooth in water if it is dirty. Do not scrub it or try to reattach tissue fragments. If possible, gently insert and hold the tooth in its socket. If that isn’t possible place the tooth in a cup of milk and get Dr. Richard L. Dailey DDS as quickly as possible. Remember to bring the tooth with you.

Objects Caught Between Teeth

Try to gently remove the object with dental floss without cutting the gums. Never use a sharp instrument to remove any object stuck between your teeth. If you cannot dislodge the object using dental floss, contact Dr. Richard L. Dailey DDS.

Toothache

Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Use dental floss or an interdental cleaner to ensure there is no food or other debris caught between your teeth. Never put aspirin or any other painkiller on the tooth or gum tissue as it will burn the mucosa. If pain persists call Dr. Richard L. Dailey DDS, at 336-513-0576.