Dental Emergencies

Visit our Tallmadge Office for Emergency Dentistry

Dental emergencies are quite frightening and often painful.  Prompt treatment is almost always required to alleviate pain and to ensure the teeth have the best possible chance of survival.

Sometimes teeth become fractured by trauma, grinding or biting on hard objects.  In other cases, fillings, crowns and other restorative devices can be damaged or fall out of the mouth completely.  If there is severe pain, it is essential to make an appointment with the dentist as quickly as possible.  The pain caused by dental emergencies almost always gets worse without treatment, and dental issues can seriously jeopardize physical health.

Dental emergencies are unexpected events that require immediate attention due to pain, injury, or discomfort. Just like any medical emergency, they don’t wait for an appointment. At Sisko Dentistry in Tallmadge, OH, we prioritize these urgent cases to ensure the health and safety of your teeth and gums.

Signs Indicating a Dental Emergency

• Severe toothache or pain
• Lost or broken tooth/teeth
• Swollen, painful gums
• Abscess or pus indicating an infection
• Jaw pain or injury
• Bleeding from the mouth

The Importance of Prompt Attention

Dental emergencies can be distressing, often accompanied by pain and the potential for permanent damage if not addressed quickly. Immediate care alleviates discomfort and can prevent further complications, saving time and costs in the long run. Furthermore, certain emergencies, like knocked-out teeth, have a narrow window for effective treatment, emphasizing the need for rapid response.
Treatment Process at Sisko Dentistry

Types of dental emergencies and how to deal with them:

Avulsed tooth (tooth knocked out)

If a tooth has been knocked clean out of the mouth, it is essential to see a dentist immediately.  When a tooth exits the mouth, tissues, nerves and blood vessels become damaged.  If the tooth can be placed back into its socket within an hour, there is a chance the tissues will grow to support the tooth once again.

Here are some steps to take:

1. Call the dentist.
2. Pick up the tooth by the crown and rinse it under warm water. DO NOT touch the root.
3. If possible, place it back into its socket – if not tuck it into the cheek pouch.
4. If the tooth cannot be placed in the mouth, put the tooth into a cup of milk, saliva, or water as a last resort.  It is important to keep the tooth from drying out.
5. Get to the dentist, quickly and safely.

The dentist will try to replace the tooth in its natural socket.  In some cases, the tooth will reattach, but if the inner mechanisms of the teeth are seriously damaged, root canal therapy may be necessary.

Lost filling or crown

Usually, a crown or filling comes loose while eating.  Once it is out of the mouth, the affected tooth may be incredibly sensitive to temperature changes and pressure.  Crowns generally become loose because the tooth beneath is decaying.  The decay causes shape changes in the teeth – meaning that the crown no longer fits.

If a crown has dropped out of the mouth, make a dental appointment as soon as possible.  Keep the crown in a cool, safe place because there is a possibility that the dentist can reinsert it.  If the crown is out of the mouth for a long period of time, the teeth may shift or sustain further damage.

When the dentist is not immediately accessible, here are the steps to take:

1. Apply clove oil to the tooth to alleviate pain.
2. Clean the crown and affix it onto the tooth with dental cement.  This can be purchased at the local pharmacy.
3. If the crown is lost, smear the top of the tooth with dental cement to alleviate discomfort.
4. DO NOT use any kind of glue to affix the crown.

The dentist will check the crown to see if it still fits.  If it does, it will be reattached to the tooth. Where decay is noted, this will be treated and a new crown will be made.

Cracked or broken teeth

The teeth are strong, but they are still prone to fractures, cracks and breaks.  Sometimes fractures are fairly painless, but if the crack extends down into the root, it is likely that the pain will be extreme.  Fractures, cracks and breaks can take several different forms, but are generally caused by trauma, grinding and biting.  If a tooth has been fractured or cracked, there is no alternative but to see the dentist as quickly as possible.

Where a segment of tooth has been broken off, here are some steps that can be taken at home:

1. Call the dentist.
2. Rinse the tooth fragment and the mouth with lukewarm water.
3. Apply gauze to the area for ten minutes if there is bleeding.
4. Place a cold, damp dishtowel on the cheek to minimize swelling and pain.
5. Cover the affected area with over-the-counter dental cement if there is no way to see the dentist immediately.
6. Take a topical pain reliever.

The nature of the break or fracture will limit what the dentist is able to do. If a fracture or crack extends into the root, root canal therapy may be the only effective way to retain the tooth.  In the case of a complete break, the dentist will usually affix the fragment back onto the tooth as a temporary measure.

Dislodged/loose teeth

When a tooth has been dislodged or loosened from its socket by trauma or decay, it might be possible to save it.  If the tooth remains in the mouth and is attached to the blood vessels and nerves, there is a good chance root canal therapy will not be necessary.

It is important to call the dentist immediately to make an appointment. In the meantime, use a cold compress and over-the-counter medications to relieve pain.  The dentist will reposition the tooth and add splints to stabilize it.  If the tooth fails to heal, root canal therapy may be required.

Treatment Process at Sisko Dentistry

• Immediate Response: When you call Sisko Dentistry with an emergency, we offer guidance over the phone before your arrival, providing immediate measures to alleviate pain or prevent further damage.
• Diagnosis: Upon your arrival, our doctor promptly assesses the situation, using X-rays if necessary, to determine the best course of action.
• Treatment: Depending on the nature of the emergency, treatments can range from pain relief measures antibiotics for infections, fillings, or even dental surgeries.

Guarding Against Emergencies

Being proactive is the first step in preventing dental emergencies. Regular dental check-ups help in early detection and treatment of potential issues, reducing the chances of sudden, severe complications. Incorporating safe oral practices such as using mouthguards during sports or avoiding hard candies can go a long way in protecting your teeth.

Moreover, it’s crucial to educate oneself about dental emergencies. Recognizing the signs of potential problems allows for timely intervention, minimizing damage and facilitating quicker recovery. Always remember that while preventive measures can reduce risks, they cannot eliminate them entirely. Knowing when and how to act in an emergency can make all the difference.

Outlook Post-Emergency Treatment

After receiving treatment for a dental emergency, adhering to the doctor’s recommendations is paramount to facilitate optimal healing. This might include taking prescribed medications, avoiding certain foods, or practicing specific oral care routines. Regular follow-up visits to the dentist are equally crucial, as they allow for continuous monitoring of the recovery process and timely intervention if any complications arise.

Thanks to advancements in dental care and the expertise of professionals like those at Sisko Dentistry, most dental emergencies can be effectively addressed. With the right treatment and diligent aftercare, patients can expect a positive outcome, regaining the functionality and aesthetics of their smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies as a dental emergency?

A dental emergency typically includes severe pain, a lost or broken tooth, swollen gums, abscesses, jaw injuries, or persistent bleeding from the mouth. Any dental issue requiring immediate attention to save a tooth, stop ongoing tissue bleeding, or alleviate severe pain is considered an emergency.

Can I wait to see if my dental issue resolves on its own?

While some minor discomfort might subside, many dental issues can worsen if not addressed promptly. If you’re in doubt, it’s always better to call and consult with our doctor at Sisko Dentistry.

How can I prevent dental emergencies?

Regular dental check-ups, using mouthguards during sports, avoiding hard foods that can break teeth, and practicing good oral hygiene are crucial steps. However, not all emergencies are preventable, so being informed and knowing who to call is also essential.

Ready to Assist You

A dental emergency can be stressful and overwhelming, but Sisko Dentistry is fully equipped and prepared to handle your urgent needs. Located conveniently in Tallmadge, OH, our dedicated team is trained to respond promptly and efficiently to a variety of dental crises. Our practice understands the gravity of these situations, and we’re committed to providing immediate care, aiming to alleviate pain and prevent further complications.

Remember, in dental emergencies, timely intervention can make all the difference in treatment outcomes and preventing potential long-term issues. By contacting us at (330) 633-9510, you’re taking the best possible step toward safeguarding your oral health. Our team is always ready to assist and guide you through these challenging times, ensuring that you receive the best care possible.