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WHAT IS CONSIDERED A DENTAL EMERGENCY?

At times, life can be unpredictable, but it’s important to have plans set in place when experiencing any emergency; especially a dental emergency. A dental emergency is typically the result of trauma or injury to the face. Knowing what to do during a dental emergency can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth. Most dental emergencies require swift action and an immediate appointment. Our team of Nebraska dentists offer a wide-range of comprehensive treatments including emergency services. The following information will help you take the necessary steps before you receive emergency treatment.

Patient Experiencing Toothache

Dental emergencies can be stressful and painful, but knowing what constitutes an emergency can help you seek the appropriate care and prevent further damage to your teeth and gums. Here are some common dental emergencies:

  1. Severe tooth pain: One of the first indications that you may have a dental emergency is having pain or discomfort due from trauma or an accident. If you do experience an injury, you can reduce pain and swelling with a cold compress and rinse your mouth with saltwater. If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain relievers, it could be a sign of a tooth abscess or infection
  2. Knocked-out tooth: If a tooth is knocked out due to injury or trauma, it is considered a dental emergency. The sooner you address the tooth, the chances of saving a knocked-out tooth and restoring it in place. If possible, try to save the tooth and bring it with you to your visit.
  3. Broken or cracked tooth: A broken or cracked tooth can cause pain and sensitivity, and may require immediate attention to prevent further damage. When a damaged tooth isn’t addressed, it can let in disease-causing bacteria that will create infection and decay. By being more prone to infections and decay, our dental team may suggest a dental crown, dental bonding, or even root canal therapy to improve the aesthetics and function of the tooth.
  4. Loose tooth: If a permanent tooth feels loose, it could be a sign of a dental injury or gum disease. Seek dental care as soon as possible.
  5. Abscess or infection: A dental abscess or infection can cause swelling, pain, and fever. Infections in the mouth, especially near the root of a tooth or in the space between the teeth and gums, are serious and can be painful. If you are feeling discomfort, check your gums for a painful, irritated, pimple-like swollen spot. When abscess are untreated, they can spread to surrounding teeth and gum tissue, and even the rest of the body through bloodstream. It’s important to seek treatment promptly to prevent the infection from spreading.
  6. Lost or broken dental restoration: If a filling, crown, or other dental restoration is lost or broken, it may need to be replaced to prevent further damage to the tooth.
  7. Swollen or bleeding gums: Excessive bleeding is typically the result of injuries with soft-tissue. Injuries to soft-tissue include gums, tongue, cheeks and lips. You will want to rinse your mouth with a salt-water solution and place a damp gauze pad to the bleeding area to help it stop bleeding. Bleeding or swollen gums can be a sign of gum disease, which can cause tooth loss and other complications if left untreated.

Gretna-Emergency Dentist

HOW TO PREVENT DENTAL EMERGENCIES?
Dental emergencies can be painful and inconvenient, but they can also be preventable with proper oral care and preventive measures. Below are some tips for preventing dental emergencies and keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

  1. Practice good oral hygiene
    – Good oral hygiene is the foundation of a healthy mouth. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use mouthwash to remove bacteria and food particles that can cause decay and infection. It is also important to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or when the bristles become frayed.
  2. Maintain a healthy diet
    – A healthy diet is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks that can erode tooth enamel and cause decay. Instead, eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which are rich in vitamins and minerals that promote healthy teeth and gums.
  3. Wear a mouthguard
    – If you play sports or engage in activities that could result in dental trauma, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from injury. Mouthguards are especially important if you play contact sports like football, hockey, or boxing.
  4. Avoid using your teeth as tools
    – Using your teeth to open packages, tear tape, or bite your nails can cause cracks, chips, and other types of dental damage. Use scissors or other tools instead.
  5. Don’t skip dental checkups
    – Regular dental checkups are an essential part of preventive care. Our Gretna dentists can identify and treat dental problems before they become emergencies. They can also perform cleanings to remove plaque and tartar that can lead to gum disease and decay.
  6. Address dental problems promptly
    – If you experience tooth pain, sensitivity, or any other dental problems, don’t ignore them. Address them promptly by making an appointment with our team. Ignoring dental problems can lead to more serious issues and even dental emergencies.

HOW MUCH IS AN EMERGENCY DENTAL APPOINTMENT?
The cost of an emergency visit with our Gretna dentists depends on each individual case. Our dental clinic offers a wide range of financing options: we work with all insurances (excluding Medicaid), CareCredit, and our in house savings plans to ensure you get the treatment you need at an affordable cost.

If you are experiencing discomfort, our team leaves time available for emergency appointments – call us today!

Hopefully you’ll never need to make use of this information and the only times we’ll see you will be for normal appointments, but preparation is key! At Neighborhood Dental in Gretna, patients are our priority. To learn more about emergency care and services contact our team of experts today (402) 905-2880 or book an appointment online.

 

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