HERE ARE THE MOST COMMON DENTAL EMERGENCIES – AND HOW TO ADDRESS THEM

Citracado Dental Group • Mar 24, 2021

Ignoring an oral health issue can lead to unnecessary stress and bigger consequences if left untreated.

A dental emergency can develop unpredictably, putting patients in a tough spot about what to do next.

Remember, not all sudden dental issues constitute an emergency. That is why it’s important to know how to identify cases that will warrant an immediate visit to the dental office.

What is a dental emergency?

Even the slightest tooth pain may raise alarm. If you experience sudden tooth pain, you may be well within reason to pick up the phone and schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible. Here’s why.

There are multiple potential incidents that can lead to sudden oral pain. Falling off a bike, biting into a hard material or any other kind oral trauma might result in severe tooth pain and a need for prompt dental consultation.

But a sudden injury is only one possible cause of pain. An oral infection can also give rise to an excruciating toothache and lead to other complications, if left untreated. Any dental infection can cause patients to jeopardize their overall health, as infections can migrate to other parts of the body.

That is why it is vital to approach oral pain in a proactive manner to avoid further health complications.

Tooth pain types and what to do

If you feel a sudden tooth pain, simple home care might be the remedy. Rinsing your mouth with warm water and flossing out any debris caught between the teeth and gums are effective home treatments. Feeling some swelling setting in? Try a cold compress to the outside of the face or take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines to subside symptoms. These methods can reduce blood flow, swelling and pain.

In the unfortunate event you chip a tooth, it’s helpful to clean and save tooth remnants for your next dental visit. If you feel pain, go ahead and rinse with warm water and add a piece of gauze to the impacted part of your mouth to reduce sensitivity, and stop any bleeding. Cold compress and painkillers are also recommended.

A dislodged tooth should be treated immediately. As painful as it might be, it’s important to retrieve the tooth, clean it with water and attempt to reinsert into place. If this is not possible, place the dislodged tooth in a container with milk or a mixture of water and salt. Remember, time is of the essence and there’s a greater chance of saving the tooth if it is well preserved. Call our office immediately for an emergency visit.

Finally, pain from an abscess indicates an infection, which can start from a decayed tooth, or gum infection. This type of infection can also spread between teeth as it damages soft tissues inside the mouth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, underscoring the importance of seeing a dentist at the earliest sign of infection. If you discover pimple-sized swelling inside your mouth near the gums, consider it a warning to have it treated. In the meantime, you can rinse with salt-water solution to alleviate pain and help remove infection-causing bacteria.

Dental emergencies can be frightening, painful and catch you off guard. Not to worry. If you feel any need to reach our office during a dental emergency, call us during office hours at 760.489.5545. We are always available to take your call and give advice on next steps. After hours emergency? Call us anyway and our voicemail will provide contact instructions.

< Older Post Newer Post >

QUICK MENU

Nurturing Mental Health: Overcoming Dental Anxiety

By Citracado Dental Group • 25 Apr, 2024

As we make way for May, a month of bright blossoms and the start of warmer weather, we also celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month . During this time, we focus our attention on highlighting the fundamental significance of mental wellness. During discussions surrounding anxiety and depression, one topic often overlooked is dental anxiety - an issue that affects millions around the world. Dental anxiety extends beyond mere dislike about going to the dentist. Rather, it is a complex emotional response that can stem from previous experiences, anticipated pain or discomfort or generalized anxiety disorders. For many people, even thinking about dental procedures can trigger intense fear reactions, panic attacks or behaviors aimed at avoiding dental care altogether. Understanding that dental anxiety isn't just about oral health but is often intertwined with broader mental health issues is vital. If you suffer from anxiety disorders or have had traumatic histories, you may be particularly susceptible to dental anxiety. Here are some tips that you can take to help break the cycle of fear and promote overall wellness. Open Communication: Don't hesitate to discuss your trepidation and fears with your dentist. Our team can tailor our approach based on your or your child’s individual needs and offer comforting reassurances throughout your appointment. Relaxation Techniques: Utilize relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation before and during your dental appointment. These methods can reduce anxiety levels and promote a feeling of calmness. Gradual Exposure: If you find yourself overwhelmed by dread at the thought of visiting the dentist, consider gradually exposing yourself to different aspects of it – start with neutral activities like sitting in the waiting room or discussing treatment plans. Sedation Dentistry: If you grapple with intense dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can offer significant relief. This method employs medication to induce relaxation during dental procedures, leading to a more comfortable and stress-free experience. Seeking Professional Assistance: If dental anxiety is significantly disrupting your daily life, it might be helpful to reach out to a mental health professional. Therapy offers valuable coping strategies and tools to effectively help manage your feelings. Dental anxiety doesn't only affect adults - children can also struggle with it, often due to fear of the unknown or past negative experiences. As parents and caregivers, it's essential to establish positive connections with dental care early on. Here are some suggestions: Early Familiarization: Introduce children to the dental environment well before their first appointment. This can help them become used to both their surroundings and the dental team. Role-playing: Encourage pretend play at home that simulates dentist visits. This helps children grow comfortable with the concept of dental procedures in a fun, secure and non-threatening environment. Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward your child's bravery during dentist appointments. Emphasize the role of oral hygiene in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Plus, many little ones look forward to a visit to the toy chest after a visit! While dental anxiety can present a significant challenge to achieving optimal oral health and overall wellness, by addressing the mental health aspects of dental anxiety and applying practical coping strategies, both adults and children can overcome fears and foster positive experiences with dentistry. At Citracado Dental Group, your comfort and well-being are our top priority. We recognize that dental visits can evoke anxiety in some patients, and we strive to surpass expectations in providing a pleasant and positive experience for every patient. Your visit to our office is not just about dental care; it's about feeling relaxed and at ease during your time with us. To help make this happen, we have a selection of great amenities lined up to make your visit more comfortable and enjoyable. From neck or back pillows and soft blankets to bottled water or juice selections, we aim to create a soothing environment where you can unwind. Need to zone out? You can enjoy your favorite music on a personal iPad or indulge in a hot cup of gourmet coffee or tea from our bar. We also offer complimentary Wi-Fi, headphones for your listening pleasure, and even facial towels and lip balm for an extra special touch. We’re committed to ensuring your trip to our office is an enjoyable one! Schedule your next visit by calling or texting 760-489-5545.