With the COVID-19 pandemic currently sweeping across America, many normal businesses are closed down. However, Plantation Road Dental Care is here to handle your dental emergencies during this uncertain time. Dr. Melanie Andrews, a dentist in Destrehan, LA, explains what are considered dental emergencies and what you can do until you’re able to be seen in our office.
Handling a Dental Emergency
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, the first thing you should do is call us immediately. We want to make sure you can be seen in the office as soon as possible. Below are common dental emergencies and what you can do to assist them until you’re seen in the office:
Severe Tooth Pain
Sharp and severe tooth pain is something that shouldn’t be ignored. Toothaches shouldn’t just be put off. There are many things that can cause you severe tooth pain, and you often have to go to the dentist to figure out the cause of yours. Commonly, tooth pain is caused by severe tooth decay, an abscess, or an infection. If you do see signs of an abscess, never try to pop it by yourself.
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, use over the counter painkillers to ease it until you can be seen. Use a cold compress if you notice that you have swelling.
Knocked-Out Tooth
It’s crucial that you don’t panic if an adult tooth is knocked out. Stay calm and try to retrieve the tooth. Never touch the tooth root and only pick it up by the crown. Gently rinse it off, but avoid any scrubbing. Place the tooth in a cup of milk or your own saliva to preserve it as much as possible. Don’t try to put the tooth back by yourself and use a warm, damp washcloth to stop any bleeding.
Dr. Andrews will examine your knocked-out tooth to determine if it can be reused. If not, our office has many other options to replace missing teeth. We often recommend dental implants if you’re eligible for them, as they’re the most natural, stable form of tooth replacement.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
A severely cracked or broken tooth can expose the tooth pulp and allow bacteria to get into your tooth. This can lead to severe tooth decay and a need for a root canal or even a tooth extraction. If you can find a piece that broke off, try to preserve it. If not, we have options like dental bonding and porcelain veneers to make your tooth look good as new!
Your Dentist in Destrehan, Louisiana
After the crisis is over, you’ll also want to make sure that the stress of everything hasn’t messed up your smile. We’ll be here for you for post-pandemic checkups. Call us or schedule an appointment online for the future. We hope we’ll be seeing you soon!