What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?

Our team recognizes that dental emergencies can be stressful and alarming. Identifying what constitutes a dental emergency and how to handle it can be an important step in preserving your oral health. Here’s a guide to help you recognize when you need emergency dental care.

Signs of a Dental Emergency:

• Severe Tooth Pain: Persistent and intense tooth pain could indicate an underlying issue such as an abscess or fracture.
• Trauma to the Mouth: Accidents from a broken or knocked-out teeth require immediate attention to prevent further damage.
• Swelling: Swelling of the gums or face could indicate an infection or abscess that needs prompt treatment.
• Bleeding: Excessive bleeding from the gums or a dental injury requires immediate evaluation by a dentist.
• Loose or Lost Dental Restoration: If a filling, crown, or veneer becomes loose or falls out, it can expose the tooth to further damage or infection.

What to Do During an Emergency

• Contact our team immediately if you experience any dental emergency.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses can help alleviate discomfort until you receive professional care.
• Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root, and place it in milk or saliva to keep it moist until you can see a dentist.
• Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze to stop bleeding from the mouth or gums.
• Prompt treatment is crucial in dental emergencies to prevent complications and save your teeth.

Remember, ignoring a dental emergency can lead to more severe problems and costly treatments down the line. Based in Panorama City, our team prioritizes your oral health and are here to provide expert care when you need it most. Call us today to schedule an appointment, we also accept Medi-Cal and are open 7 days per week.