“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail,” said Benjamin Franklin. Now, he most likely wasn’t talking specifically about emergency dentistry, but then again, maybe he was?
Emergency dentistry is inconvenient at best. But there is no harm done in making sure you’re prepared when the moment strikes. The difference between knowing exactly what to do versus trying to find the best answer on Google during a crisis could be the difference between saving or permanently damaging your smile.
Perhaps you came to Las Vegas, NV, for a weekend trip with the girls, and you trip and fall on your way back to the hotel? Or maybe the kids played an innocent game of baseball on the weekend that quickly turned into a parent’s nightmare? It could even be a severe toothache that is keeping you up all night long. These things most certainly never happen during your dentist’s regular business hours.
First things first, Don’t Panic!
Take a deep breath and keep reading our step by step instructions for common dental issues and emergency dentistry:
Missing filling
- Make an appointment to see a dentist during regular hours.
- Fill the sensitive hole left behind with orthodontic wax.
Toothache
- Rinse with warm water to dislodge debris.
- Gently floss and brush.
- Apply an ice pack to control swelling.
- Take an anti-inflammatory pain reliever.
- If the pain persists, call an emergency dentist.
- If the pain goes away, follow up with your dentist during regular hours.
Something Stuck In Teeth
- Gently remove debris using dental floss.
- Do not use a knife or other sharp object.
Chipped or Cracked Tooth
- Save all the pieces of your tooth.
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling.
- Take an over-the-counter pain medication.
- Avoid crunchy foods, sugary snacks, and anything too hot or cold.
- Call your dentist for an appointment during regular working hours.
Knocked-Out Tooth
- Hold the tooth by the crown, not by the root.
- Rinse the tooth with milk or cold water.
- Replace the tooth in the empty socket and gently bite down on a clean cloth.
- If not possible, place the tooth in a glass of milk or in between the cheek and teeth of your mouth.
- Call your emergency dental practice right away.
Mouth Is Bleeding
- Switch to a softer toothbrush. Visit your dentist to discuss treatments.
- If bleeding has lasted longer than 24 hours, make an emergency dentistry appointment.
- Elevate head.
- Apply pressure to help control the bleeding.
Swollen Face
- Apply ice or a cold compress.
- Elevate head.
- Stay hydrated until your dentist gets a chance to see you.
Jaw injury
- If you think your jaw is broken, immediately go to the Emergency Room.
- If you experienced trauma to your jaw:
- Call your dentist.
- Place an ice pack to reduce swelling.
- Do not eat any solid food.
Call an Emergency Dentist in Las Vegas
Not all dentists offer emergency dental care. That’s why it is always safe to have a backup plan if your dentist can’t schedule an appointment in a dental emergency.
At Smith & Cosmetic Family Dental, we are proud to offer same-day emergency dentistry in Las Vegas appointments in our dental offices. We care about your oral health and want to help quickly before your dental problems become worse.
Ask us about our other dental services, such as dental implants, general dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry treatment plans. Contact us today.
