Dental Emergency

Dental Emergency

Any dental emergency, whether it’s an injury to your teeth or gums, can pose a serious risk and should never be overlooked. Neglecting such issues might lead to permanent damage and result in more complex, costly treatments in the future.

Lost filling:

For a quick fix, place a piece of sugar-free gum into the cavity—avoid sugary gum, as it can cause pain—or apply over-the-counter dental cement. Be sure to contact our office without delay.

Lost crown:

Should your crown come loose or fall off, promptly schedule an appointment with Dr. Do and Dr. Duc Pham. Be sure to bring the crown with you. If you can’t see them right away and the tooth becomes painful, try soothing the area by dabbing a small amount of clove oil on it with a cotton swab. You can find clove oil at most drugstores or in the spice section of your grocery store.

If possible, carefully place the crown back on the tooth. Before doing so, apply a thin layer of over-the-counter dental cement, denture adhesive, or even toothpaste to the inside of the crown to help secure it temporarily. However, never use super glue!

Toothaches:

1. Start by thoroughly rinsing your mouth with warm water. This helps to clean the affected area, remove food particles, and soothe the surrounding tissues.

2. Gently floss around the affected tooth to remove any trapped food particles. Sometimes, lodged food debris can exert pressure on the tooth, intensifying the pain.

3.If your mouth or cheek is swollen, apply a cold compress to the outside of the area. This reduces swelling and numbs the pain. Avoid using heat, as it may aggravate an infection and cause it to spread.

Abscess:

A dental abscess is a localized infection that develops around the root of a tooth or in the space between the teeth and gums. It is a serious condition that can cause significant oral discomfort, damage surrounding tissues, and even lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated. This article thoroughly explores the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures for dental abscesse

A dental abscess occurs when bacteria invade the pulp chamber of a tooth or the periodontal tissues, forming pus. This pus accumulation creates a pocket of infection that can cause swelling, pain, and other health complications.

The infection may result from:

  • Untreated tooth decay

  • Cracks or chips in a tooth

  • Poor oral hygiene

  • Periodontal (gum) disease

While waiting to see a dentist, you can ease discomfort with these remedies:
  • Saltwater Rinse: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and rinse several times daily.

  • Cold compress: Apply to the cheek to reduce swelling.

  • Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Use ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage pain.

Chipped or broken teeth:

A broken or chipped tooth can be distressing, but taking prompt action and seeking professional dental care can make all the difference. From rinsing your mouth to applying a cold compress, these steps help manage the situation until you can visit your dentist. Remember, protecting your teeth with preventive measures can help reduce the likelihood of future incidents. Don’t delay—contact your dentist for expert care and get your smile back on track!

Immediate Steps to Take When You Chip or Break a Tooth.
  1. Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to remove debris and clean the area. This step reduces the risk of infection.
  2. If possible, find and save any fragments of the tooth. Place them in a clean container with milk or saline solution, as they may help during your dental visit.
  3. If bleeding occurs, apply gentle pressure to the area with a piece of gauze. Hold it in place for about 10 minutes or until the bleeding subsides.
  4. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth, cheek, or lip near the affected area. This can help minimize swelling and reduce pain.
  5. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to manage discomfort. Avoid aspirin, as it may increase bleeding.

Knocked-out tooth:

If you’ve knocked out a tooth, follow these steps to increase the chances of saving it:

  1. Handle the Tooth Carefully
    Pick up the tooth by the crown (the white part that’s normally visible in your mouth). Avoid touching the root to prevent damage.

  2. Clean the Tooth Gently
    If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with water. Do not scrub the tooth or remove any tissue fragments attached to it.

  3. Reinsert the Tooth (If Possible)
    Try to place the tooth back into its socket, making sure it is facing the correct way. Do not force it into place.

  4. Keep the Tooth Moist
    If reinserting the tooth isn’t possible, keep it moist. Place it in a small container of milk or in a cup of water with a pinch of salt if milk isn’t available.

  5. Seek Immediate Dental Care
    Contact our office right away. Teeth that are seen by a dentist and replaced in their socket within an hour have the best chance of being saved.

Time is critical in these situations—don’t delay! Reach out to us immediately for expert care.

Bleeding after losing a baby tooth:

To stop bleeding after a baby tooth is lost, place a clean, folded piece of gauze or paper towel over the area. Have the child gently bite down on it for about 15 minutes. If needed, repeat the process.

DFW-Miller-Dental-Logo-footer

At DFW Miller Dental, our mission is to provide high-quality dental care tailored to meet the unique needs of every patient. We strive to create a welcoming and compassionate environment where patients of all ages feel comfortable.

women with braces

Fort Wotrth Dental Hours

Arlington Dental Hours

Contact Info

Copyright © 2025 DFW Miller Dental. All rights reserved. Present by Boss Website Design