How To Handle Common Dental Emergencies - DuPont, WA

Knowing What to Do to Prevent Further Injury

At Dupont Family Dentistry, we want you to know that we are here for you, especially when you need it most. When dental emergencies arise, you want the reassurance of knowing that your dental professionals will be here to diagnose, treat, and help you recover from any type of accident, big or small. But until you are able to get in to see us, it is important that you know how to handle common dental emergencies in DuPont, WA.

A Lodged Object Between Your Teeth

A woman holding her cheek while her dentist comforts her

We all get food stuck between our teeth sometimes. Whether it is a popcorn kernel or piece of juicy steak, it can be a nuisance trying to dislodge. But if left too long, it can become a real problem and begin to cause pain and discomfort. If you find that a piece of food or an object is lodged between your teeth, the first step is to rinse your mouth with warm water to loosen it up. Next, take a piece of waxed dental floss and gently move it back and forth until the item is freed. If you are unsuccessful at removing the object, make sure to call our office and schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

Partially Knocked-Out Tooth

A person flossing between their teeth

Should you experience an extruded tooth, also known as a partially knocked-out tooth, you will need to contact your emergency dentist in DuPont, WA, quickly. Teeth that are partially or fully removed from their sockets should be treated within the hour if it is to be saved. You can expect there to be some pain and discomfort, so taking a pain reliever will help as well as using a cold compress against your cheek. This will not only alleviate discomfort but also reduce swelling.

If you are able, try to push the tooth back into the socket and avoid chewing on that side of your mouth; however, if you cannot move it back, simply leave it alone and wait until you reach the dentist’s office.

Abscess or Infection

A woman holding her cheek in pain while talking to the dentist

When pus begins to develop in your gums and above a particular tooth, it is likely that you have an abscess or serious infection. This most often occurs at the root of a tooth and when left untreated, becomes a serious problem not only for your oral health but also for your overall well-being. You will need to call our office and request an immediate appointment. Depending on the severity of the infection, it may be necessary for us to extract the tooth to save your oral health from deteriorating further. Prior to arriving at our office, make sure you rinse with mild saltwater a few times a day and be mindful of other symptoms that can present themselves, including fever, swelling, swollen lymph nodes, and persistent toothache.

Soft Tissue Lacerations

A woman with serious pain in her teeth

From a busted lip to biting down on your tongue, soft tissue lacerations are easy to come by. Your lips, cheeks, gums, and tongue are all susceptible to injury, and when they occur, you will need to rinse your mouth with saltwater to thoroughly clean the wounded area. Placing a piece of gauze or even sugarless gum over the laceration can help stop any bleeding. If necessary, you may place an ice pack on the area for 5-10 minutes.

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