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Drs. Jeff Bue and Julie Chang of Kennebec Dental Excellence in Winslow, Maine, have years of combined experience treating dental emergencies alongside traditional dentistry. Today, they share answers to some frequently asked questions about what to do in a dental emergency.
A dental emergency is best described as any situation that requires immediate attention from a dental provider to stop bleeding, alleviate pain, or prevent permanent damage or tooth loss. This can include severe toothaches, knocked-out or broken teeth, or injuries to the mouth and jaw.
If your tooth has been completely knocked out, it is crucial to act fast. Hold the tooth by the crown (top) and rinse off any dirt or debris with water. Do not scrub or remove any of the tissue fragments attached to the tooth’s root. If possible, place the tooth back into its socket and hold it in place by biting down on a clean gauze or cloth. If you are unable to replace the tooth in the mouth, you will need to keep it moist by placing it in a clean container with either milk or saliva and seek immediate dental treatment.
If your tooth breaks, rinse your mouth with clean, warm water and apply a cold compress to the area to reduce swelling. Save any broken pieces of the natural tooth and bring them along with you to your emergency dental appointment. Depending on the actual severity of the tooth break, our dentist may be able to repair the damage with bonding or a crown.
If you are currently experiencing a severe toothache, you should start by rinsing your mouth with warm water and gently flossing in between the teeth to remove any food particles that could be causing physical pain. You can also obtain an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen to alleviate discomfort. If the pain persists, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible, as it could be a sign of a more serious issue.
If you have a cut or injury to your mouth, rinse with warm water and apply pressure to stop any bleeding. If needed, use a cold compress on the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling. Seek dental or medical attention if the bleeding does not stop on its own or if the injury is severe.
While some dental emergencies are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to effectively minimize your potential risk. These include practicing good oral hygiene, wearing a mouthguard during sports or other physical activities, and avoiding hard or even stickier foods that can cause damage to your teeth. Regular dental check-ups will help identify any potential issues before they turn into emergencies.
Winslow area, Maine, patients who have a dental emergency are welcome to call our office for same-day dentistry. We are also open to new patients and assist individuals in their time of need. Call (207) 810-5088 to request an appointment at 464 Benton Avenue and learn more. To put dental care within your reach, we also offer financial membership plans and accept most dental insurance plans.
Dr. Jeff Bue is a qualified dentist who graduated from the University of Michigan in 2017. Committed to maintaining high clinical standards, he is trained to provide a broad range of services, including crowns, dental implants, dentures, periodontal treatments, grafting, root canals, emergency extractions, and bridges. Dr. Bue has ongoing advanced training in implant placement and sedation dentistry and is skilled in administering mild sedation to enhance patient comfort. He is dedicated to providing the highest quality care to his patients while emphasizing a comfortable, relaxing patient experience.
Dr. Julie Chang completed her dental degree at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, followed by an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at Togus VA Hospital. During her residency, Dr. Chang cared for veterans, which gave her extensive experience with dentures, implants, root canals, surgeries, and advanced restorative treatments. She is committed to providing personalized, quality care while prioritizing a stress-free, positive patient experience. A lifelong learner, Dr. Chang continues to enhance her expertise with advanced training in root canals, molar extractions, and implants.