Dental emergencies are not only painful but can present significant oral health issues in the long term. At St. Cloud Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide emergency dental care and encourage patients to seek immediate treatment for dental emergencies by calling us at (407) 952-0083.
If it will be some time before you can be seen by our emergency dentist, follow these steps to alleviate any discomfort or potential damage to the health of your smile.
Cracked or Broken Teeth
If you have experienced a cracked tooth due to physical trauma, it is important to contact our dentist right away. To temporarily seal off the area and improve comfort, we recommend applying a bit of sugar-free gum or using dental adhesive, if you have it on hand.
When a portion of the tooth has broken off entirely, bite down on a piece of gauze to helping stem any bleeding as quickly as possible. After the clot develops, it is important not to rinse, drink through a straw, or eat foods that are hard, crunchy, or have seeds.
Missing Teeth
When a tooth has been knocked out, it is important to seek immediate medical attention to have it replaced in the smile. Reattachment is only possible within the first hour after trauma has occurred.
When picking up the tooth, hold it by the crown to increase the chances of successful replacement; touching the root may cause damage to the soft tissues. The tooth can be rinsed with lukewarm water, though it is important to not scrub. Saliva is an ideal medium for the tooth, so you can also lick the tooth to minimize risks of damaging it.
Once the tooth has been cleaned off, it can be placed back into the empty socket to promote healing and reintegration. If the tooth does not fit, it can be placed on the cheek or a glass filled with saline solution. These preserve the health of the soft tissues until you can be seen for your emergency.
Alleviate Dental Discomfort Immediately by Calling Dr. Heap’s Emergency Line
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, stay calm and contact our St. Cloud emergency dentist today. Quick action can preserve your immediate comfort, long-term health, and the aesthetics of your smile.