Looking for an emergency dentist in Pelham or Mount Vernon?
Emergency dental problems treated, include: – Severe localized toothache, Non-specific dental pain, including gums and oral tissue – Pain around jawbone – Temporomandibular (TMI) joint pain, causing earache – Broken or cracked teeth – Loose or lost tooth, crown or bridge While every effort is made to convey the most comprehensive advice, in most cases a full dental exam and x-ray is required to properly identify problems, before the necessary course of treatment can be decided. In most cases, patients can be made comfortable until an early next day appointment to address the problem. In urgent cases however, a dentist is always available to administer help and treatment at any time day or night.
What counts as a dental emergency?
If a tooth has been knocked out of the mouth, it is essential to see a dentist immediately. Tissues, nerves, and blood vessels become damaged almost immediately, but if the tooth can be placed back into its socket within the hour, there is a chance the tissues will grow to support it again.
What do I do if the pain is gone in the morning?
Though it may be a great relief to wake up pain-free, usually dental pain will recur unless treated, as sensitivity is generally an indicator of an underlying problem. In some cases, pain can return with more intensity until the issue or infection is addressed. Too often we see issues causing great discomfort, sometimes leading to expensive dental treatment, which likely started as a small problem that could have been eliminated during a regular, inexpensive dental cleaning with the hygienist. Putting off going to the dentist is one of the main reasons patients find themselves requiring emergency dental treatment. We urge you to come and see us, so that you’re less likely to need to see us when you’re suddenly in pain.
Could my pain be due to an infected root canal?
One of the most common recurring emergency dentistry enquiries, is the sudden onset of intense pain, caused by infected tissue inside a tooth and its root, often causing an abscess coupled with extreme sensitivity.
In many cases a dentist can carry out treatment, though in more complicated situations, the patient will be referred to a root canal specialist, also known as an endodontist. Root canal treatment is a widely used procedure in the US, performed roughly 15 million times a year, with a success rate of around 95%.
Could my pain be due to an infected root canal?
Usually, if a crown or filling comes loose while eating, it may leave the affected tooth incredibly sensitive to temperature changes and pressure. The most common cause of crowns coming loose is decay underneath, causing the tooth to change shape so that the crown no longer fits.
If the crown has dropped out of the mouth, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Keep the crown in a cool, safe place, as the dentist may be able to reinsert it. If it is out of the mouth for too long, the teeth may shift or sustain further damage.
Is the pain due to cavites?
Decay going unnoticed or unchecked, can develop unexpectedly into severe toothache, requiring urgent attention. This is a common problem, and one that can be seen and addressed at short notice. As soon as a toothache begins to strike, get in touch to plan the fastest course of action. The tooth will be cleared of decay, and filled to restore it to its optimum strength. Teeth can be easily saved and preserved for a lifetime, with swift action and treatment..
Could I need a dental extraction?
On occasion, teeth can be damaged as a result of an accident or injury. In cases where it is not possible to save the tooth, a more detailed procedure is required to safely remove it from the gum. Sometimes a tooth is embedded, or broken in pieces and difficult to remove in its entirety. In these circumstances, a surgeon, specializing in dental extractions will complete the procedure. The dental surgeon administers appropriate anesthesia for the patient, and provides complete aftercare information and instructions.
The dentist will always strive to retain teeth where possible, if he assesses there is a high probability the treatment will be a success. In cases where there is no hope of saving the tooth, and it is accessible and intact, the dentist will perform a common extraction in the dental office. Anesthesia ensures the patient is comfortable, and experiences no pain during the removal of the affected tooth.
What happens if I need a widsom tooth extraction?
Wisdom teeth are not commonly removed in an emergency appointment, as there is usually some consideration given to the pros and cons of extracting or retaining some or all of the wisdom teeth. There are common problems associated with wisdom teeth, such as difficulty cleaning hard to reach areas; crowding as teeth move and grow; infection collecting in impacted teeth. Should any pain or problems arise from discomfort in your wisdom teeth, contact us. Cleaning and scaling processes can often alleviate problems and create some breathing space until a more permanent solution to the issue is reached.
What happens if I need a widsom tooth extraction?
The nature of the fracture or break will determine what the dentist is able to do. If it extends to the root, root canal therapy may be the only way to save the tooth.
What do I do if I have broken a tooth?
As with any impact felt by teeth, if you broke something as a result of physical trauma or accident, and believe there is even a slight chance you may be injured, please consult a medical doctor before seeking dental treatment to ensure you have not sustained a concussion.
A broken tooth can be alarming, painful, and uncomfortable. Exposed tissue and nerves provide an acutely sensitive magnet for heat, cold, and highly sugared or spiced foods. Abstaining from eating and drinking until you reach the dental office, if possible is advisable. Avoid irritating and inflaming the nerves of the tooth. It is also important to ensure you do not choke on pieces of broken tooth, or for them to become lodged in the throat.
It is of paramount importance to us for our patients to know we are here to support their dental health in every way possible. Sometimes it can wait until the morning, but we understand you want to be sure you’re doing the right thing. Here are some general guidelines and checks, relating to many out of office hours’ concerns:
· If you have knocked a tooth out, there is a small timeframe within which it can occasionally be possible to reattach the tooth. Your dentist will advise if this is possible in your case. To increase the odds, place your tooth in a glass of milk and call us immediately.
· For almost all dental pain and infection, salt dissolved in warm water, used to rinse the mouth (spit, don’t swallow) will provide some comfort and pain relief until symptoms heal. If no improvements are seen in 12-24 hours · Tylenol is recommended for mild to moderate dental pain (follow pack instructions).
· NOT recommended: Aspirin; Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin and Aleve) · These medications contain anticoagulant ‘blood thinners’ which can exacerbate any bleeding
· Following extraction a condition known as ‘dry socket’ can occur, when the healing process is hampered. An in-office irrigation treatment may be required to disinfect the wound and promote recovery. Rinsing with salt water every 1-2 hours, or as often as possible, can help calm infection and clean the area until professional attention is available
· Apply an ice pack to affected areas where pain or swelling is felt, limiting time to 15-20 minutes per hour
Call us if you are in pain; have lost a tooth, or experienced dental trauma of any kind. We are here to offer advice and counsel 24/7 to ensure you are receiving the support and treatment you need at every hour.
Mothers caring for a child who has a dental emergency, are understandably concerned they are seen as quickly as possible. If you are in any doubt as to whether you or a loved one has sustained any injury to the head or face, please be sure to consult a medical doctor to check for a possible concussion before seeking dental treatment.
