How to Handle Dental Emergencies With Your Dentist in Pittsburgh

A broken leg, a very high fever, or an extensive laceration are all obvious reasons to get to the emergency room as soon as possible. However, that isn’t always the case for dental emergencies. Most people don’t know when an oral issue requires an appointment for next week or the same day it happened. That’s why your dentist in Pittsburgh is here to help.

Today, your dentist will help you define dental emergencies and give steps on what to do prior to your visit. It just might save your tooth in the process.

What Constitutes as a Dental Emergency?

While your dentist in Pittsburgh will only be covering the most common dental emergencies, he still wants patients to contact him in the event that any of the following occurs:

• A tooth is knocked-out or dislodged
• Severe tooth pain
• Facial swelling
• Loose dental crowns or fillings
• Sharp chipped teeth
• Oral burns or sores

In the event that your jaw breaks or bleeds extensively, you should first visit the emergency room to get to a more stable condition. Afterwards, schedule an appointment with your dentist.

A Knocked-Out Tooth

If the tooth has been completely knocked out, a good way to preserve it is to place it back into the socket facing the same way it was in originally. Before doing this, very gently rinse any dirt or debris that may have collected. Do not scrub the tooth or remove any tissue fragments that are still attached.

If placing the tooth isn’t possible, simply place it in a container of milk, saliva, or saltwater to keep it preserved until your visit. The sooner you get to your dentist, the higher your chances are of saving the tooth for reimplantation.

A Bad Toothache

A toothache can have many causes, so until you find out what it is from your dentist, simply take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to relieve pain. Avoid hot or cold foods which can worsen the pain. Avoid aspirin as it can easily cause a burning sensation to the area. To cleanse the area, gargle a warm saltwater mixture.

A Swollen Face

Use an icepack to apply to the cheek in 20-minute intervals (20 minutes on and 20 off.) Do not use heat on the area. You can also use antibiotics or a saltwater rinse to reduce swelling. Taking ibuprofen can relieve pain until you visit your dentist.

A Restoration Came Off

If a filling comes off, use an over-the-counter filling material to cover your exposed tooth. If a dental crown comes off, use a dental cement to temporarily reseat your crown. This will prevent other teeth from shifting towards the newly-empty space. Avoid eating chewy or hard foods until you get to your dentist.

Handling dental emergencies is simple when you know the right steps from your emergency dentist in Pittsburgh. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to contact him today!

About the Author

Dr. Dan Rairigh earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the West Virginia School of Dentistry. His practice is fully prepared to handle dental emergencies happening in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas, so don’t wait to get your emergency treated today by contacting him through his website!