Dental emergencies are often unexpected, painful, and at least a little frightening. Knowing what to do when they strike can make all the difference between a speedy recovery and lingering issues. Fortunately for patients in Colorado Springs, the Springs Family Dental team, led by Dr. Michael Terveen, offers excellent emergency care to help you preserve your radiant smile and strong, healthy bite!
Identifying Common Dental Emergencies
One thing all dental emergencies have in common is that they demand immediate attention. Of course, the emergencies themselves take many different forms. Here are some of the most common:
- Sudden, severe, and unrelenting toothache
- Dental breakage or significant chipping
- Permanent/adult tooth loss due to decay or traumatic impact
- Loose or lost dental fillings or crowns
- Periodontal infections and abscesses stemming from untreated gum disease
What to Do When a Dental Emergency Strikes
When an emergency strikes, calm, clear-headed, decisive action before you get to the dentist is crucial. For severe toothaches, broken teeth, or lost fillings, rinse your mouth immediately with warm water and floss gently to dislodge trapped debris. In the more serious case of adult/permanent tooth loss?
- Recover as much of the tooth as possible, including all smaller fragments.
- Without touching the root or any exposed tissue and without scrubbing, gently rinse the tooth.
- Place all tooth fragments in a container of milk, saline solution, or saliva — either via reinsertion into the empty socket in the jaw or holding all the fragments in your cheek.
- Get to an emergency dentist ASAP!
Among the most common treatments for these dental emergencies are root canal therapy, dental extraction, and restorations like dental fillings or crowns. For periodontal emergencies, gum recession treatment might be necessary to alleviate pain and protect tooth roots.
Finding the Best in Emergency Dentistry in Colorado Springs, CO
Whether you’re suffering from a dental emergency in Colorado Springs or seeking out routine cosmetic care like professional teeth whitening, it’s important to know where to turn in crucial moments. To receive immediate expert care with confidence and empathy in your moment of need, contact Dr. Michael Terveen, DDS, FAGD, FICOI, and the excellent Springs Family Dental today!