Answering Common Questions About Dental Emergencies

Emergency dentists in Westlake handle a wide range of severe dental problems, including broken, cracked, and knocked out teeth. Patients of all ages may also contact an emergency dentist with sudden acute pain in the teeth or gums. If you experience any of these problems, contact your dentist immediately. An emergency visit can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth. Keep reading to find out the answers to frequently asked questions about some common dental emergencies.

What Do I Do if I Knock Out a Tooth?

For a permanent tooth, make sure to keep it moist at all times. If you can, try to place the tooth back in its socket without touching the root. If that proves impossible, place the tooth between your cheek and your gum or in milk. An ADA-approved dental preservation product will also help preserve the tooth. Then, get to your emergency dentist’s office immediately.

What Happens if My Child Knocks Out a Tooth?

Even if your child has knocked out a baby tooth, you should still try to keep it moist by submerging it in milk or using a dentist-approved tooth preservation product. Get to your dentist right away. Your emergency dentist will determine how much of the tooth has been lost and whether it should be implanted again.

Can a Dentist Help With a Cracked Tooth?

Yes. Whether you crack a tooth biting down on a hard object or have suffered facial trauma, cracked teeth can cause more than just cosmetic complications. Left untreated by a dentist, a cracked tooth can worsen, leading to infection and even tooth loss. Visit your dentist right away.

How Should I Remove an Object Stuck in My Child’s Tooth?

If an object is stuck in your mouth or in your child’s mouth, try to gently remove it with floss. Dentists caution that sharp or pointed instruments should never be used, as they may crack the teeth or damage the soft gums. Objects stuck in teeth can be painful or cause infection if not removed. Schedule an appointment with your dentist if you cannot dislodge it.