What is an emergency dentist?
An emergency dentist is a medical professional who specializes in caring for cracked, chipped, damaged, or knocked-out teeth. Emergency dentists like those at UpcareClinics have extensive training in oral surgery and other preservative techniques designed to keep your teeth, gums, and smile healthy.
If you or a loved one experiences a dental emergency, it’s important to act quickly and call UpcareClinics as soon as possible. The team has an emergency phone number and an on-call staff member who is available at all times.
What are some common dental emergencies?
Dental emergencies affect people of all ages, races, and genders. Some of the most common issues the team at UpcareClinics treats include:
- Severe toothaches
- Swollen gums
- Gum abscesses
- Cracked teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Loose teeth
- Lacerations
- Uncontrollable bleeding
- Broken braces
- Damaged prosthetics (crowns, bridges, or implants)
You might also benefit from meeting with an emergency dentist if you get a foreign object lodged between your teeth, such as a toothpick or a piece of food.
If I lose a permanent tooth, what steps should I take?
If you lose a permanent tooth while playing sports or working, stay calm and pick up the tooth by the top of the crown. Next, rinse the tooth off in tap water to eliminate any dirt or debris. Then, place your tooth back in its socket. If the tooth won’t stay in place, you can put it in a glass of milk or tuck it inside your cheek.
Once the tooth is secure, call the team at UpcareClinics to schedule a same-day emergency dentistry appointment. When you speak with a staff member, explain the events responsible for your tooth loss. The team will get you in for an appointment. They may also provide you with tips to limit pain or bleeding on your way over.
Is there any way to prevent the need for an emergency dentist?
Unfortunately, there’s no way to prevent the need for an emergency dentist. Accidents and injuries happen, often when you least expect. That said, there are steps you can take to lower your risk.
If you play contact sports like hockey, football, or basketball, always wear a mouthguard. If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw during sleep, wear a nightguard. You can also lower your risk of a dental emergency by avoiding bad habits. Try to avoid biting your fingernails and chewing on ice cubes, hard candies, or popcorn kernels.
Taking these preventive measures can significantly lower your risk of an accident or injury that harms your teeth, gums, or tongue.
Cavities and gum disease that require emergency treatment are also preventable. Visiting the team at UpcareClinics for bi-annual exams and professional cleanings can significantly lower your risk of complications.
If you or a loved one needs to see an emergency dentist, schedule an appointment at UpcareClinics. Call the office and speak with a team member or book a consultation online today.
