Let’s say you sprained an ankle — what’s next? Most of us would probably say something along the lines of plop down on the nearest couch with a bag of ice, elevate the ankle, add some compression, and see a doctor if it doesn’t see improvements in a day or two. But what about a dental emergency, like a broken tooth? What’s your first step? Don’t be surprised if you don’t know. Most people aren’t that familiar with the recommendations surrounding their dental emergency. But after this post, you’ll be a go-to source if something does happen.

So What, Exactly, is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any event that warrants immediate care to save a tooth, stop bleeding from the mouth, or relieve tooth or mouth pain. Some of the most common examples we see at include a cracked or knocked-out tooth or a toothache.

Tips for Treating Common Dental Emergencies

We see our fair share of dental emergencies here in Huntersville, NC and our office is equipped with the highest quality technology to handle all of them. If you or a family member experience any dental emergency listed below, call us at 704-948-1111 as soon as possible, and we’ll let you know what steps to we can help you take to quickly reverse the damage.

• Knocked-out tooth – For adults, place the tooth in the socket without touching the root; if that’s not possible, place the tooth between your check and gums, in milk, or in ADA-approved tooth-preservation solution. It’s crucial to keep the tooth wet. For children with baby teeth, come to our office as soon as possible; do not try to place the tooth in the socket.
• Cracked tooth – Rinse your mouth, and place an ice pack on your face to reduce the swelling. Wrap the tooth up in wet gauze or a towel, and bring it to the office.
• Toothache – Use warm water to rinse your mouth, and gently floss to remove any food. If you note any facial swelling (which may signal infection), come to our office or your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
• Bitten Tongue or Lip – Clean the area with a cloth, or rinse your mouth with water. Apply an ice pack to the area. If the bleeding doesn’t slow, come to our office or go to the ER.

Tips for Preventing Emergencies

Taking the right measures can keep your teeth safe. A few easy precautions you and your family can take each day are to never open anything with your teeth, always use scissors; wear a mouthguard anytime you are playing a high impact sport like football, basketball or soccer; and wear a helmet when riding a bicycle, scooter or skateboard. It is also important to avoid chewing hard foods like ice or candy and always keep small toys and other belongings out of the mouths of small children.

Need More Information?

Visit our office in Huntersville, NC today, everyone at Reimels Family Dentistry is happy to answer any questions you have! We also have partners in Charlotte, NC with special extended hours every day of the week to treat emergencies outside of our office hours. Visit Charlotte Emergency Dental Clinic on Park Road today or call them at 704-525-3939