Emergency
Dentistry
What can we do for you?
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Dental emergencies can happen anywhere, at any time. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t panic! Read on for guidelines on how to treat the most common dental emergencies immediately after they occur and before you can get to a dentist. If you are still unsure of what to do or are experiencing any kind of dental emergency, please feel free to call and ask us at MacArthur Park Dentistry!
Emergency Dentistry Guidelines
Knocked Our Tooth
A knocked-out tooth can often be saved if replaced within 30 minutes to an hour, so it is important to act quickly. First, be sure to touch the tooth only by the crown (the “top” or visible part of the tooth), never the roots. If it is dirty, rinse it gently with milk if possible (water only if not), and do not scrub or wrap it in any kind of fabric or cloth as this can damage the tooth. Try to slip the tooth back into the socket but do not force it; if it does not go in easily simply place the tooth in a glass of milk or in your mouth, keeping it moist at all times. Get to the dentist as soon as you can!
Crown Or Filling Fell Out
If your crown or filling falls out, first remove it from your mouth so you don’t accidentally swallow or inhale it, or damage your other teeth by chewing on it. Try to save the crown or filling if possible to bring it to the dentist.
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If a filling has fallen out, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to make sure the tooth isn’t infected or have other issues that you should be aware of. Be sure to keep your teeth very clean in the time before you can visit the dentist; if it is too painful to brush, try swishing your mouth in warm salt water to keep the mouth clean. Dr.Sam Koo will determine the best course of action thereafter, such as if a simple replacement filling is sufficient or if the tooth requires more extensive restoration.
Cracked Tooth
A cracked or fractured tooth is a serious issue, usually indicating that damage has occurred to the inside of the tooth as well as the outside.
Call us for an emergency appointment immediately, and if you cannot see us right away be sure to clean your mouth by gently rinsing it with warm salt water. If the cracked tooth is caused by facial trauma, apply a cold compress to the area to minimize swelling. We will need to take an x-ray to properly diagnose the condition of the tooth and determine the best course of treatment. A crown is typically needed if the tooth is only cracked on the outside and has no internal damage; root canal therapy is typically needed if the tooth does have internal damage or infection.
Extreme Toothache
If you suffer from extreme tooth pain and cannot determine its cause, try rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater and floss gently. Do not put any kind of medication or painkillers directly on the affected area, as this could potentially cause damage to the gums. If the pain does not subside within 1-2 days, and particularly if you develop fever, earache, or jaw pain, schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Our doctor will examine your mouth to determine the cause of the toothache, and recommend treatment so that you can be relieved of pain and get back to your daily life!
