While most businesses are shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, your Washington DC dentist is still available to handle emergencies. Dr. Justin Deckard of DC Precision Dentistry lets you know how to recognize a dental emergency and what you can do until you’re seen in our office.
What is a Dental Emergency?
With increased stress and grinding and clenching your teeth, there may be a higher chance now of you having a dental emergency. If you’re suffering from any of the following conditions, call our office immediately. These steps can help you at home before you’re seen in our office:
Severe Dental Pain
Tooth pain can come from a number of reasons. You could have trauma to the tooth, an infection, tooth decay, or other issues. We won’t be able to stop the pain fully until the main cause is determined. Try taking over the counter pain relievers to help with any pain. A cold compress can be held against the jaw to assist if there’s any swelling.
An Abscess
One of the causes of dental pain can also be an abscess in the tooth or gums. This means that you have a bacterial infection in your mouth and pus has built up in a targeted area. Never try to pop an abscess yourself at home. Take over the counter pain medicine and use cold compresses to help with any pain and swelling. A root canal or other treatment may be needed to make sure it can be eliminated.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth is completely knocked out of your mouth, do your best to retrieve it. Don’t touch the tooth root and pick up the tooth by the crown. Gently rinse off any dirt from the tooth and keep it in a cup of water or saliva. The tooth can be preserved for a limited amount of time this way and Dr. Deckard may be able to reattach the tooth. If not, there are many tooth replacement options we can offer at our office.
Cracked, Chipped, or Broken Teeth
There’s a large range when it comes to these issues. It could be anything from a cosmetic chip to a severe break. This can expose the pulp of the tooth, which can be extremely painful. Like with a knocked-out tooth, try to retrieve the pieces of the tooth that broke off and keep them hydrated. There are also multiple ways of fixing a chipped or broken tooth. Your dentist will determine which one is best for your specific case.
Emergency Treatment at Your Washington DC Dentist
Do you think you have a dental emergency? Call us immediately. Also, make sure your smile is taken care of after the pandemic. Appointments can be scheduled online and we hope to see you soon!