There are many reasons you might need an emergency dentist visit and it’s important to know what might qualify as a dental emergency and the first aid you can do until you get to the dentist. There are four broad categories that are dental emergencies and several pieces that fall under each category.
Toothache
Toothaches can be caused by many reasons, the most common being decay in the nerve area. A toothache doesn’t necessarily mean a root canal is in store but it is always important to get it checked just in case. If you aren’t able to get into a dentist right away, don’t worry there are many first aid options available to help your toothache. Numbing agents like the brand Orajel are great to help alleviate the pain surrounding the tooth. For a more mild toothache, you can even take ibuprofen or Alleve to help with the pain.
Mouth Swelling
Mouth swelling is another reason to contact Paul Krause Dental about an emergency dentist visit. Mouth swelling can be caused by an oral infection which is why it is important to call right away. When you call Paul Krause Dental we will make sure that everything is addressed and provide temporary solutions until an emergency visit is scheduled. However, if the swelling increases or it becomes hard to breathe, go to a hospital right away and avoid putting heat on the area. After the swelling is taken care of we’ll match you with one of our emergency dentists to find the root of the swelling.
Chipped or Fractured Tooth
A chipped or fractured tooth is never fun, especially if it’s a larger chip or fracture. If there is a large fracture in the tooth it is very likely that a crown will need to be placed to help the tooth. However, if the chip or fracture is small it could be likely that a simple filing or filling will help the tooth. If you are experiencing pain from the tooth you can get a temporary sedative filling at your local drug store until you are able to see one of our emergency dentists.
Tooth Knocked Out
It can be scary if your tooth gets knocked out, especially as an adult when there aren’t any adult teeth left coming in. Don’t worry though because even a permanent tooth has the ability to be put back in. Contact Paule Krause Dental first to let them know about this dental emergency and then follow these steps. Wash the tooth off with cold water, being careful to only handle the tooth by the crown, not the root. Then try to re-implant the tooth by carefully putting the tooth back into the socket, you will know you are successful when the tooth lines up with the rest. However, if you aren’t put the tooth in a glass of milk until you get to one of our emergency dentists.
For more information about emergency dentists in Omaha, call Paul Krause Dental today!