It was an exciting day – you’d been working all Spring to get ready for your first game in the new adult softball league you joined. When you arrived at Folk Memorial Park, the team was pumped, even though it was just a friendly competition. You stepped out onto the field, glove in hand, and headed for center field. The crack of the bat caused you to take your stance, but the sun caught you off guard, and made you miss the Popfly that was headed your way – it ricocheted off the ground and caught you right in the mouth, knocking out one of your teeth. Everyone gathered around to help, and one of your friends called their dentist, since they knew first-hand how great the care is, and that they offered emergency services. The team at White Clay Dental Associates was able to see you right away and saved your smile. In this post, your premier dentist in Newark explains what to do in case of a dental emergency.
What Should I Do In A Dental Emergency?
Dr. Donald Bond and Dr. Timothy Ganfield recommend that you follow the first aid tips below if you find yourself in any of these circumstances. Stay calm and call us at (302) 731-4225 if you have any of the following conditions:
- Knocked-Out Tooth – Losing a tooth from an accident or an existing oral health issue can cause extreme anxiety, so don’t panic. Pick the tooth up by the crown (the part you chew with) and rinse it off with water. Then, place the tooth back in the socket. If you’re unable to do this, put the tooth in a glass of milk. Either way, call us immediately.
- Toothache – Although toothaches can seem like they’re not that serious, they can lead to major health issues. If you’re experiencing pain, make sure nothing is lodged between your teeth and floss gently in the area. Rinse with warm salt water. Don’t delay treatment because oral infections can become serious quickly.
- Cracks/Breaks– If your tooth cracks or breaks, don’t panic. Collect any broken pieces and store them in a glass of milk. Then, contact our office immediately. Even if your tooth remains in your mouth, you should still seek treatment right away to prevent those dangerous oral infections we mentioned before.
- Soft-Tissue – Trauma to the soft tissues of the face can be alarming due to the amount of blood involved. If you cut or tear your lips, cheeks, or tongue, rinse with warm salt water. Then, apply a piece of sterile gauze that’s been moistened in the salt water to the area, or use a wet tea bag instead. Contact our office ASAP or go to the ER if the bleeding does not stop in 15-20 minutes.
- Jaw Injury – If you have a fall or are in an accident and experiencing jaw pain, go to the ER immediately. The emergency room can often miss a broken jaw, so follow up with us if you continue having pain and swelling after you’re treated at the hospital.
Now that you know what do to when a dental emergency occurs, schedule your appointment to get to know White Clay Dental Associates, your superior emergency dentist in Newark, before an accident happens.