Dental Emergencies: Guide to Handling in Ann Arbor

If you are in need of an emergency dentist, please call us immediately at 734-339-2131.

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Dental emergencies can happen to anyone, at any time, and often when you least expect them. Whether you’re dealing with a severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken filling, knowing how to handle these situations can make all the difference in saving your tooth and minimizing discomfort.

Keep reading as we cover the most common dental emergencies, when to seek immediate care, and how to prevent them from happening in the first place.

Common Dental Emergencies and How to Handle Them

1. Severe Toothache

A severe toothache is one of the most common dental emergencies. If you experience intense pain, swelling, or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, you may have a deep cavity, infected tooth, or gum disease. Until you can see your dentist, rinse your mouth with warm salt water, take over-the-counter pain medication, and apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.

2. Knocked-Out Tooth

If you have a tooth knocked out due to trauma or injury, time is of the essence. Gently rinse the tooth with water, being careful not to remove any attached tissue. If possible, try to place the tooth back in its socket, holding it in place with gauze or a clean cloth. If you can’t reinsert the tooth, place it in a container of milk or saliva to keep it moist. Seek emergency dental care within 30 minutes to an hour for the best chance of saving the tooth.

3. Broken or Lost Filling

If you lose a filling or break a tooth, you may experience pain, sensitivity, or sharp edges that can cut your tongue or cheek. As a temporary measure, you can place a piece of sugarless gum or dental wax over the affected area to protect it. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule a repair.

4. Abscess or Infection

A dental abscess is a painful, pus-filled swelling caused by a bacterial infection. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of your body and become life-threatening. Symptoms include severe pain, fever, swollen glands, and a foul taste in your mouth. Rinse with warm salt water and seek emergency dental care right away. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics and perform a root canal to save the tooth.

When to Seek Emergency Dental Care

While some dental issues can wait for a regular appointment, others require immediate attention. If you experience any of the following, seek emergency dental care as soon as possible:

Severe pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medication
Uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth
Swelling that affects breathing or swallowing
Trauma to the face or jaw
Knocked-out or partially dislodged tooth
Signs of infection, such as fever, swelling, or pus drainage

In Ann Arbor, New Era Dental is equipped to handle a wide range of dental emergencies, with experienced dentists and state-of-the-art technology to provide prompt, effective treatment.

Preventing Dental Emergencies

While not all dental emergencies can be avoided, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

2. Wear a Mouthguard

If you participate in sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard can protect your teeth from damage and injury.

3. Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects

Chewing on ice, popcorn kernels, or non-food items like pens can crack or chip your teeth. Stick to tooth-friendly snacks and break habits that can harm your teeth.

4. Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups

Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and exams. Your dentist can detect and treat minor issues before they become serious emergencies.

What to Expect During an Emergency Dental Visit

If you experience a dental emergency in Ann Arbor, the first step is to call your dentist’s office. Most practices, including New Era Dental, offer same-day appointments for emergency cases. When you arrive, your dentist will examine your mouth, take x-rays if needed, and assess the severity of the problem. Depending on the issue, they may provide temporary relief, such as pain medication or a filling, or perform a more extensive procedure like a root canal or tooth extraction. Your dentist will also give you instructions for post-treatment care and schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress.

Don’t Delay Emergency Dental Care

Dental emergencies can be painful, stressful, and scary, but knowing how to handle them can help you stay calm and take the right steps to protect your oral health. If you experience a severe toothache, knocked-out tooth, broken filling, or signs of infection, don’t hesitate to seek emergency dental care.

In Ann Arbor, New Era Dental is here to provide prompt, compassionate treatment when you need it most. Remember, the sooner you address a dental emergency, the better your chances of saving your tooth and avoiding more serious complications down the road. If you find yourself in need of urgent dental care, call 734-808-0000 or contact New Era Dental immediately to schedule an emergency appointment.

Your Guide to Handling Dental Emergencies in Ann Arbor