Unfortunately, not all problems can be prevented. Even with the best of dental care, you may still harm one of your pearly whites in an accident. It is important to know what to do if this happens to you. When you need urgent dental care, your Allen, TX, family dentistry is here to help. Today, learn how to manage an accident and the treatment options available for your needs.
If You Harm A Tooth
There are many accidents that can cause trauma to your oral cavity. When this happens to you, remember to remain calm and follow these steps. If the area is bleeding, apply gauze or cloth to the area. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce your discomfort. For a broken or chipped tooth, save the pieces if you can do so. If the entire structure has become dislodged, place it in a clean bag if possible. Then, call your dentist for an emergency appointment. Do not wait until your next checkup to have the area looked at. This can put you at risk of the injury worsening or becoming infected. The dental team will give you instructions while you wait for your appointment. If necessary, have a friend or family member drive you to this visit.
You Do Not Need To Go To The Emergency Room
Many people may be led to believe that if they break a tooth, they should go to the emergency room or an urgent care location. However, the medical professionals here may not be able to do much for your tooth-related injury. Instead, your dentist may be able to see you and get the help you need.
For patients with a chipped or cracked pearly white, your dentist can craft a protective crown for the area. This may take a few weeks to come in, but a temporary one can be placed while you wait. If you have an abscess, your dentist can examine the area to determine if a root canal or extraction will be helpful. If the entire tooth has been dislodged, they may be able to re-root it. In other cases, your dentist may recommend prosthetic options. These can vary depending on the severity of your tooth loss but could include a bridge, dentures, or implants.
Preventable Injuries
Not all accidents can be avoided, but there are a few ways to decrease your risk. First, remember to take care of your smile at home. This includes brushing and flossing to prevent plaque buildup. Skipping these steps can lead to the development of decay or gingivitis, which can worsen without care. In addition to this, visit your dentist every six months for a checkup and examination. If there is a problem, these appointments allow for early detection to treat the concern promptly.
We Can Help You In Urgent Situations
If you have suffered a tooth-related injury, do not delay treatment. Schedule an emergency visit with Allen Family Dentistry in Allen, TX, today at 469.342.6644.
