Emergency Dentistry

If you’ve had a tooth knocked out, follow these steps immediately to preserve it until you can see the dentist:

1. Locate the Tooth: Carefully find the tooth and pick it up by the crown (the visible part), avoiding the root.
2. Clean the Tooth (If Needed): If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with milk or saline solution. Avoid scrubbing or using tap water, as this can damage the root cells.
3. Reinsert the Tooth (If Possible): If you can, try to gently place the tooth back into its socket. Hold it by the crown, push it back into place, and softly close your mouth to keep the tooth in position.
4. Bite Down Gently: Bite down gently on a clean cloth or gauze to secure the tooth.
5. Store the Tooth Safely (If Reinsertion Isn’t Possible): If you cannot reinsert the tooth, keep it moist. Store it in a small container of milk or, if that’s not available, in a cup of your own saliva.
6. Contact ADOB Immediately: Time is crucial for saving a knocked-out tooth. Seek emergency care at Alpha Dental Excellence right away.
7. Avoid the Following: Do not touch the root, clean the tooth with soap, or wrap the tooth in tissue or cloth.

Remember, acting quickly increases the chances of saving the tooth!

If you experience a cracked or severely chipped tooth, follow these steps to manage the situation until you can receive professional dental care:

1. Rinse Your Mouth: Gently rinse with warm salt water to clean the area and remove any debris.
2. Control Bleeding: If there’s any bleeding, apply gentle pressure using clean gauze or a tea bag. Continue until the bleeding stops.
3. Protect the Tooth: Cover the chipped area with dental wax to prevent the sharp edges from cutting your tongue or cheek.
4. Manage Pain: If you’re experiencing pain, apply a cold pack to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling and discomfort.
5. Eat Carefully: Avoid biting down on the chipped tooth. Stick to soft foods and avoid hot or cold items to prevent irritation.
6. Save Any Fragments: If you find pieces of the chipped tooth, store them in a clean container and bring them to the dentist—they may help with the repair.
7. Contact ADOB: Schedule an emergency dental appointment as soon as possible. The sooner you seek care, the higher the chances of successfully repairing the tooth.
8. Avoid Certain Activities: Until you see a dentist, avoid actions that could further damage the tooth, such as participating in sports or chewing hard foods.

Taking these prompt actions can make a significant difference in how the tooth is treated and repaired.

To manage swelling and inflammation associated with dental emergencies at home, follow these practices until you can seek professional care:

1. Apply Cold Compresses: Use a cold pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel. Apply it to the affected area for 10-15 minutes at a time. Repeat every hour as needed.
2. Keep Your Head Elevated: Even while sleeping, keep your head elevated above your heart to help reduce swelling.
3. Use a Saltwater Rinse: Rinse your mouth gently with a warm saltwater solution (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) several times a day to reduce swelling and soothe the discomfort.
4. Avoid Hot Foods and Beverages: Stick to cool or lukewarm foods and drinks, as heat can worsen swelling.
5. Take Anti-Inflammatory Medication: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen can help reduce both pain and swelling. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage and check for any potential interactions with other medications.
6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, as staying hydrated can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
7. Avoid Aggravating the Area: Try not to touch or apply pressure to the swollen area with your tongue, fingers, or by chewing hard food.
8. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss gently around the affected area, avoiding direct contact with the swollen site.
9. Rest and Relax: Stress can exacerbate swelling, so be sure to rest and remain relaxed.

While these at-home remedies can offer temporary relief, they should not replace professional care at Alpha Dental Excellence in Langhorne. If the swelling persists or worsens, it’s important to seek immediate dental care.