Emergency Dentistry Specialist

What is emergency dentistry?

Emergency dentistry is a branch of oral health care focused on treating injuries and other problems that require immediate medical attention. 

If you crack, chip, or knock out a tooth, it’s important to act as quickly as possible. Making it to Westside Dentistry within 30 minutes of your accident could mean the difference between a simple restoration and a series of more complex surgical procedures.

What issues does emergency dentistry treat?

Emergency dentistry treats a wide variety of common problems, including:

• Cracked teeth
• Chipped teeth
• Knocked-out teeth
• Severe toothaches
• Jaw fractures
• Jaw pain
• Cuts to the gums, cheeks, and tongue

You might also benefit from emergency dentistry if you get a toothpick or another type of foreign object lodged between your teeth. 

If I lose a permanent tooth, what should I do?

If you lose a permanent tooth, it’s important to stay calm and act quickly. First, pick up the tooth by the crown and rinse it in cool tap water. After it’s clean of any debris, try and place it back into the socket. If it won’t stay put, place it in a glass of milk or tuck it inside your cheek. Just make sure you don’t swallow it. Then, call Westside Dentistry.

The team at Westside Dentistry always sets aside time for same-day emergency dentistry appointments. If your accident happens during normal business hours, call and let the team know about your injury, or simply walk into the office. 

If you experience a dental emergency after-hours, visit your nearest emergency room or call 911.

Is there any way to avoid a dental emergency?

Unfortunately, there’s no way to avoid dental emergencies entirely. However, there are steps you can take to lower your risk significantly. For example, if you play contact sports or enjoy mountain biking, the team recommends wearing a mouthguard. 

If you grind your teeth or clench your jaws during sleep, you might want to consider wearing a nightguard. This type of oral appliance prevents wear-and-tear damage to your tooth enamel. 

You should also try and avoid bad habits. Don’t use tobacco products and stop biting your fingernails. Minor changes like these can make all the difference and preserve your oral health for years to come. 

If you or a loved one suffers a dental emergency, don’t wait to seek treatment. Call the office or walk in to get the care you need today.