York PA Emergency Dentist
Injuries to your mouth or face can be very frightening, and if not properly handled, very serious. Call us right away if you have any of the following problems:
- Dental Abscess: This is a pimple-like swelling on your gums, and it will be painful to the touch. This is an infection, and like any other infection, if left untreated it can cause a lot of damage. Rinse your mouth with salt water and call us right away.
- Toothache: This can be an early warning sign of an abscess. Gently clean around the affected tooth using dental floss, to make sure no food or debris is causing the irritation or soreness, then rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Broken Tooth: If possible, save any pieces of the broken tooth. Rinse with warm water, use a cold compress to try and keep the swelling down, and call us right away.
- Knocked Out Tooth: Very carefully rinse off the tooth, being careful not to remove any of the attached tissue. If you can, replace it in the socket. If this is too painful, put the tooth into a cup of milk and get to us as soon as possible.
- Lost Filling or Crown: If a filling is missing, seal the area with sugarless gum or dental cement. For a crown, try to reattach the crown with dental cement. In both cases, contact our office to set up a time to come in and get the repairs done.
- Broken Jaw: If you suspect you have broken your jaw, call us immediately. This situation probably warrant a trip to the emergency room. Apply cold compresses to help with pain and swelling.
The best way to protect yourself from dental emergencies is to keep your teeth as strong and healthy as possible, with good dental hygiene and regular dental care. Never chew on anything hard like ice, candy or popcorn kernels, and don't use your teeth as a scissors substitute. If you play sports, use a mouth guard.
Most importantly, if you have a dental emergency, contact us right away.
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