Be Prepared for Any Situation
Being taught how to address minor medical emergencies with First Aid is standard practice. However, very few of us learn how to manage emergencies that involve our teeth. This is unfortunate since it’s often possible to save a tooth when emergencies occur, even if it’s been knocked out. Rentschler and Rhee Dentistry is available to help new patients and existing members of our patient family when emergencies occur.
Did you know?
That the steps you take after a dental emergency happens can greatly improve your outcome once you receive emergency care. Even though emergency dentists will see you very quickly, there are some precautionary steps you can take in the time it takes to arrive at your dentist’s office. The American Dental Association has a few recommendations:
- If you bite your lip/tongue – gently cleanse the area and apply a cold compress.
- If you break your tooth – gently rinse the area and apply a cold compress.
- If you lose your tooth –rinse tooth’s root with water if it’s dirty, being careful to hold it by the crown. Carefully place it back in its socket, or place it in milk. Bring it to the dentist immediately.
How To Respond To Dental Emergencies
When dental emergencies occur, they often involve a significant amount of discomfort and distress. Our team at Rentschler and Rhee Dentistry can help you address these concerns. However, responding immediately is essential to helping the teeth survive. Taking the proper First Aid steps is essential, even if you’re already on your way to see us. When dental emergencies occur, follow these steps:
- Toothaches: The severity of pain that occurs with a toothache ranges from mild to utterly debilitating. Depending on your sensitivity to mouth pain, even mild discomfort can make it nearly impossible to focus. Toothaches are a dental emergency; they indicate something wrong with your oral health. Schedule an appointment immediately when any dental pain occurs.
- Tooth Displacement: A tooth that has been knocked out can often be saved if action is taken quickly. Many patients don’t know this or what to do when it happens. This has undoubtedly led to teeth that could otherwise be saved being lost forever. Follow these steps if you have a tooth knocked out:
- Pick up the tooth by the crown. Take care to be gentle.
- Cleanse it of debris and dirt with cool water.
- Adults can insert the tooth back into the socket.
- If this isn’t a possibility, place the tooth in a cheek pocket or milk.
- Visit our office in Corona, CA, immediately.
- Dental Fracture: Sudden impacts can lead to the tooth becoming cracked or fractured. When this occurs, it’s essential to see Dr. Rhee as soon as possible. Cracks in the teeth can be a direct pathway for bacteria, creating a risk of pulp infection.
- Dental Infection:
Infections in the oral cavity can be a significant concern. When they occur within the tooth, a root canal may be required to prevent tooth loss. Infections in the gums in the form of an abscess can put the jawbone at risk. In severe cases, they can become life-threatening. Scheduling an appointment to see Dr. Rhee should be done immediately if you suspect a dental infection.
Emergency Dental Care You Can Trust
Dental emergencies can happen at any time. Whether you have a severe toothache, a cracked or knocked-out tooth, or signs of infection, acting quickly is essential. At Rentschler and Rhee Dentistry, we provide fast, expert care to relieve pain and protect your oral health. Our team is ready to help you through any urgent dental situation with compassion and skill. Contact us as soon as the emergency begins.