Dental emergencies can range from an unrelenting toothache to a dislodged or fractured tooth. When you experience a dental emergency, our goal is to ensure you receive the prompt care you need in a comfortable setting. We recommend calling us immediately to determine the severity of your dental issue so we can provide the appropriate treatment quickly.
In the meantime, there are steps you can take to lessen the pain and protect your smile until you are in our team’s care at Western Smiles Dental Care.
#1 Toothache or Sensitivity
Toothaches can indicate deep decay, infection, abscess, or another oral health issue. Your dentist performs a root canal treatment for abscesses and infections, followed by tooth crowning.
In the meantime, rinse your mouth with warm water (or salt water) and gently use dental floss to remove any food debris stuck between your teeth. We do not recommend putting aspirin on the tooth or gums.
You can use an ice pack periodically to help numb the pain and, if medically able, an over-the-counter pain reliever until you see the dentist.
#2 Jaw Swelling
Jaw swelling is indicative of a tooth root infection or abscess. If you have a toothache, you can use an over-the-counter pain reliever if medically able and apply an ice pack periodically. If you don't have an ice bag, a bag of frozen veggies may do the trick.
If you've injured your jaw, let us know when you call for your emergency dental visit. However, if you've sustained a trauma, we urge you to visit the hospital and contact us after you've been assessed.
#3 Dental Abscess
An abscess may be difficult to notice on your own. In other words, it may not be visible. But, in some cases, you'll notice drainage or tooth discolouration around the infected tooth. As with root infections, we typically treat your tooth abscess with root canal therapy.
A root canal treatment means numbing the area, removing the infection and closing the tooth at a later appointment with a custom dental crown.
#4 Knocked-Out Tooth
If you lose a permanent tooth, it’s best always to keep it moist. If possible, gently place it back in the socket without touching the tooth’s root. If not, place the tooth between your gums and cheek, in a glass of milk or use an ADA-approved tooth preservation kit. And please make sure you get to your dentist’s office as soon as possible so we can restore or replace the tooth!
If your tooth cannot be saved, it's vital to consider tooth replacement to keep your smile healthy and beautiful. At Western Smiles Dental Care, we offer:
- Dental implants
- Dental bridges
#5 Cracked or Broken Tooth
Immediately rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the affected area, and place a cold compress on your face to reduce swelling. If the tooth has sharp edges from the damage, you may also put dental wax or sugar-free chewing gum on it so it doesn't cut your tongue, cheek or lips.
Sometimes, your Mirrabooka dentist can save the tooth with a dental crown. For more minor chips and cracks, we can discuss dental bonding.
# 6 Lost Crown or Filling
A lost crown or filling leaves your tooth vulnerable to infection or new tooth decay. If your crown or filling falls out or the crown is lost, you can temporarily seal it with dental wax. However, be sure the area is clean before topping it with wax. If you feel pain, use an ice pack to help numb the area.
Your dentist can provide a new tooth-coloured filling or a temporary dental crown while we craft a new custom restoration.
#3 Bitten Tongue or Lip
A bitten tongue or lip can be very painful. If this happens to you, gently clean the area with water and apply a cold compress to keep down swelling. If the tongue is bleeding, you can apply gentle pressure to help staunch the flow. Sterile gauze is the best choice, but a heavy towel will do on short notice.
You might want to carry a cup to spit in because swallowing blood may upset your stomach.
Emergency Dentistry in Mirrabooka
Dr Peter Duke is a skilled and gentle emergency dentist in Mirrabooka who countless families and individuals trust with their dentistry needs. If you or a loved one is experiencing a dental emergency, our team at Western Smiles invites you to contact us today. We will get you in to see Dr Duke as quickly as possible and do everything we can to relieve any pain and discomfort. Dr Duke and our team can develop a personalised treatment plan based on your unique oral health needs so you can return to smiling again in no time.