Our Office Emergency Dentist, Ocean Springs, MS
Emergency dental problems such as toothaches or injuries to the teeth or gums can be serious and should not be ignored. Ignoring an injury or toothache often allows the condition to worsen and can allow the damage to become irreversible. In extreme situations the condition may be or may become life threatening and should be immediately addressed in an Emergency Room.
What to Do in Dental Emergencies
Toothache
ADA Dental Minute: Emergency Dentistry
Thoroughly rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it out. Then gently use dental floss and a toothbrush to clean out any food left between your teeth and gums. Never put aspirin or any other painkiller against the gums near the aching tooth because it may burn the gum tissue. Never use a hard, sharp object such as a toothpick to attempt to remove the debris. This often exacerbates the situation. Contact Dr. Hendrix if the pain continues.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
Save any of the pieces. Rinse your mouth with warm water. Use cold compresses on the area to keep any swelling down. It's important to call us immediately and we can often see you the same day.
Knocked Out Tooth
Hold the tooth by the crown (the normally visible end) and gently wash off the root of the tooth in water if it’s dirty. Do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue fragments. If possible, gently insert and hold the tooth in its socket. Do your best to line the tooth up with the other teeth as it was before being knocked out. If that isn’t possible, put the tooth in a cup of milk and get to the dentist as quickly as possible. Remember to bring the tooth with you!
Objects Caught Between Teeth
First attempt to gently remove the object with dental floss and a toothbrush. Do not use a sharp object to remove anything stuck between your teeth, it can easily lead to further injury. If you can’t dislodge the object using a toothbrush and dental floss, call us. We have special instruments that can be used to dislodge the object without damaging your teeth or surrounding gums.
