Dental emergencies can be frightening and often happen when you least expect them. A sudden toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken crown can leave you in pain and unsure of what to do next. When disaster strikes, knowing how to react quickly can make a significant difference in saving your tooth and alleviating discomfort.
At Lacey Family Dental, we understand the urgency of these situations. This guide provides essential steps to take during common dental emergencies and explains how we can help you get the prompt care you need right here in Lacey, WA.
What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?
Not every dental issue requires immediate emergency care. However, some situations demand urgent attention to prevent further damage, alleviate severe pain, or save a tooth.
Common dental emergencies include:
- Severe Toothache: Persistent, throbbing pain that doesn’t subside with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: A tooth completely dislodged from its socket.
- Chipped or Broken Tooth: Especially if it’s causing pain or has sharp edges that cut your tongue or cheek.
- Lost Filling or Crown: Exposing the sensitive inner part of the tooth.
- Abscess or Swelling: A painful, pus-filled infection that can spread rapidly.
- Bleeding Gums or Mouth Injury: Uncontrolled bleeding after an injury to the mouth, tongue, or gums.
If you are unsure whether your situation is an emergency, it’s always best to call our Lacey dental office for guidance.
Immediate Steps for Common Emergencies
Taking the right steps immediately after a dental emergency can impact the outcome.
- For a Severe Toothache: Rinse your mouth with warm water. Gently floss to remove any trapped food particles. Do not put aspirin directly on the tooth or gum tissue, as this can cause a chemical burn. Contact Lacey Family Dental for an urgent appointment.
- For a Knocked-Out Tooth: Hold the tooth by the crown (the chewing part), not the root. If dirty, gently rinse it with water – do not scrub or remove any attached tissue fragments. Try to reinsert the tooth into its socket. If that’s not possible, place the tooth in a small container of milk or a tooth preservation product. Time is critical; see us immediately.
- For a Chipped or Broken Tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to minimize swelling. If you can, save any broken pieces of the tooth. Call Lacey Family Dental promptly.
- For a Lost Filling or Crown: For a lost filling, you can temporarily cover the cavity with sugar-free gum or dental wax. For a lost crown, try to reattach it with dental cement or even toothpaste, but do not force it. Contact us as soon as possible to prevent further decay or damage.
Why Choose Lacey Family Dental for Emergencies?
When you’re facing a dental crisis, you need a team you can trust. At Lacey Family Dental, we prioritize emergency cases to provide timely and effective care.
Our commitment includes:
- Prompt Appointments: We strive to see emergency patients as quickly as possible.
- Experienced Team: Our dentists are skilled in diagnosing and treating a wide range of urgent dental issues.
- Comfort-Focused Care: We understand dental anxiety, especially during emergencies, and offer options to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
- Conveniently Located: Being right here in Lacey, WA, means quick access when you need it most.
Don’t Wait – Contact Us Now
Ignoring a dental emergency can lead to more severe problems, increased pain, and costly treatments down the line. If you are experiencing a dental emergency in Lacey, WA, or the surrounding areas, do not hesitate to reach out to Lacey Family Dental.
We are here to help you navigate these stressful situations with professional, compassionate care. Your oral health and comfort are our top priorities.