Dental Emergencies And What To Do

The most common dental emergencies tend to be a broken or knocked out tooth. Pain and swelling, which often result from an infection or an abscessed tooth, are also considered emergencies. Although they are non-life threatening, certain dental injuries require immediate treatment in order to prevent nerve damage or loss of the affected tooth/teeth. The dentists at Atlantic Dentistry serving OBX, NC offer treatment for dental issues that require timely dental care.

Dental Emergency Treatment in OBX, NC

Emergency oral health treatment covers injuries that do not require a trip to the hospital emergency room but may not be able to wait until your dentist has an opening days or even weeks in the future.

Atlantic Dentistry advises patients to plan ahead and have a dental emergency plan in place in order to save precious time in the event of an accident or injury. Because gum disease and poor oral health can lead to serious dental problems that can cause acute symptoms like swelling or loose teeth, preventive dental care should be part of a comprehensive dental and oral healthcare plan.

What Is Considered A Dental Emergency

The following symptoms generally require immediate dental care:

• Pain
• A tooth becomes loose or is completely knocked out
• Pus/foul smelling discharge/signs of infection
• Soft tissue injuries (cuts and lacerations to the gums, tongue, or cheeks)

When treated in time, a tooth can often be saved even if it is completely knocked out. If possible, try to keep the tooth in the socket until you can get to the dentist. Otherwise, try to keep the tooth clean and do not let it dry out (soaking in milk is advisable). When in doubt, speak to a dentist to determine whether your case is an emergency.

Find a Dentist in OBX, NC

Practicing good oral hygiene and making regular visits to the dentist is the most effective way to prevent common dental emergencies like pain and infections caused by tooth decay and inflammation. For more information on preventive dental care and emergency treatment in Outer Banks (OBX), NC, contact Atlantic Dentistry today to schedule an appointment.