EMERGENCY DENTISTRY IN FEASTERVILLE-TREVOSE

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Here are some tips for handling a dental emergency before you see us:

Toothache

Never ignore a toothache hoping it will go away on its own. Prompt treatment is always better than waiting until you have a bigger, more painful problem on your hands.

• Use a cold compress on and off the affected area at 20-minute intervals.
• Stir a half teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around in your mouth.
• Take an OTC pain reliever like ibuprofen or one recommended by your doctor.

Jaw Pain or Swelling

Jaw pain or swollen, puffy gums could be signs of a root infection or abscess that requires immediate treatment. Waiting too long allows the infection to spread and can even become life-threatening without prompt treatment.

Call us immediately and follow the above instructions to relieve pain and swelling.

Dental Trauma, Including a Knocked-Out Tooth

Dental trauma commonly involves an injury to the mouth, including a tooth knocked loose or out of its socket. Both require immediate treatment, especially a knocked-out (avulsed) tooth, where it needs to go back in the socket right away.

If we see you within the first hour, we have the best chance of saving the tooth; however, we still want to see you as soon as possible, even if it's been longer than an hour.

Be careful to handle the tooth by the crown only and keep the root moist. Try placing it back in the socket; if you can't, hold it in your mouth between your cheek and gums or place it in a container of milk or saliva and bring it to our office.

Cracked or Broken Tooth

A broken tooth may not be painful, but it requires prompt treatment to prevent further damage that could become painful and costly to repair. A cracked or broken tooth can also lead to a pulp infection that requires a root canal to resolve.

On the weekend or after hours, pick up a temporary tooth repair kit at your drug store. The kit contains wax that you place on the tooth to protect your tongue and cheeks from sharp edges.

Lost Dental Crown or Filling

Like a broken tooth, a lost crown is a dental emergency that we need to treat promptly. If it's not possible to place the crown back on the, wrap it in tissue and bring it to our office.

For a broken or lost filling, collect any loose pieces and bring them to your emergency dental appointment.

We care about your comfort and safety and will do everything to get you out of pain as quickly as possible. Please call us at 215-607-2070, so we can help you.