Experiencing a dental emergency?
We offer immediate, same-day appointments to relieve pain and restore dental health. Contact our Lexington or Concord dentist office for emergency dental care today.
Emergency dentistry involves immediate care for dental issues that require urgent attention. Our offices provide emergency dental care in the event of trauma or infection and can offer specialized services for complex problems. Getting prompt emergency dental care can make a significant difference in the outcome of dental issues, so it’s important to seek help as soon as possible if you experience a dental emergency.
Treating Common Dental Emergencies
Here are some common scenarios that might require emergency dental care:
- Severe Toothache: Intense pain could indicate an infection, abscess, or serious decay. Our dental care team may perform a thorough examination, including X-rays, to identify the cause of the pain. Treatments can include root canal therapy if an infection is present or a filling if decay is the issue. Pain management and antibiotics might be prescribed if an infection is involved.
- Chipped or Broken Tooth: This can cause pain and may affect your appearance or the function of the tooth. Minor chips may be smoothed or bonded with composite resin. Larger breaks might require dental crowns or veneers to restore the tooth’s function and appearance. In some cases, a root canal may be needed if the damage affects the tooth’s pulp.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Immediate action can sometimes save the tooth. Keep it moist and get to the dentist quickly. Gently clean the tooth with water (do not scrub), and try to place it back into the socket. If that’s not possible, keep the tooth moist by placing it in a container with milk or saline. If treated within an hour, the tooth has a better chance of being successfully re-implanted.
- Lost Filling or Crown: This can expose the tooth to further damage or infection. We will assess the damage and replace the filling or crown with a permanent solution. If the original crown is damaged or lost, a new one will need to be made.
- Injury to the Gums: Significant bleeding or trauma to the gums should be addressed promptly. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area and reduce swelling. Our dentists will examine the injury, possibly use sutures if necessary, and provide instructions for care to promote healing and prevent infection.
- Object Stuck in Teeth: Sometimes, objects can become lodged between teeth, causing pain and discomfort. Rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss to try to remove the object. Avoid using sharp or pointed objects that could damage your gums or teeth. If you can’t remove the object, contact one of our offices.
When treating a dental emergency, we can offer pain relief and a path to oral health. Prompt treatment, especially in the event of a knocked-out tooth or broken appliance, can help patients avoid complications that often require more extensive treatment to resolve. Immediate attention can help prevent the spread of infections that can affect the supporting and adjacent tissues in the mouth.
Immediate At-Home Care
When an emergency happens, minimizing discomfort and swelling, as well as cleaning the area if possible, are important steps to be taken at home. Contact our office immediately for complex emergencies such as a knocked out tooth or sudden pain so that we can discuss the need for a same-day appointment.
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain until you can see a dentist.
- Avoid Certain Foods: Stick to soft foods and avoid extremely hot or cold items that could exacerbate pain or discomfort.