Emergency Dentist – Buzzards Bay, MA

How to Handle Common Dental Emergencies

There are two major types of dental emergencies that patients should be on the lookout for. The first type is sudden and unexpected – physical accidents that may result in broken, fractured, or completely knocked-out teeth. The second type develops at a more gradual pace and occurs when tooth decay worsens over time, leading to a severe oral infection that is often better known as a “toothache.” Dr. Peterson and Dr. Cho have plenty of experience with both types of emergencies and will be able to assist you by relieving pain and providing restorative solutions. Here are some helpful tips for what to do before you’re able to reach our location:

Toothaches

In some cases, prolonged oral pain may be caused by a pesky particle of stuck food between the teeth and gum tissue. Try flossing and rinsing your mouth thoroughly; if the pain persists, a more advanced oral infection is likely present and you should absolutely contact our office right away. You can take painkillers in the interim to control the discomfort, such as Aspirin, although we strongly suggest NOT touching the medication to the gum or tooth surfaces directly, as they may lead to further pain.

Chipped/Broken Tooth

If large pieces of the tooth have become dislodged, gather then up and plan to carry them with you to our practice. Any bleeding can be stymied with some gauze, and we suggest holding a cold compress to the appropriate cheek to keep any noticeable facial swelling to a minimum.

Knocked-Out Tooth

First question: do you still have the tooth? If you do and are interested in possibly having it replanted, please keep in mind that the available window of time for doing so is short – typically an hour. If at all possible, gently place it back within its original socket and hold it there with your tongue or finger. Alternatively, you can carry the tooth in your cheek pocket or place it in a container of milk; the idea is to keep the dental structure moist. Our doctors will make time to see you as soon as possible!

Lost Filling/ Crown

Unlike the above situations, the loss of a filling or crown isn’t technically a true emergency. Patients should still be capable of going about their daily routine, although they may experience some sensitivity or general discomfort because the treated tooth is now exposed to the elements. Do you still have the dental crown? You can try gently placing it back into its original position with the help of some denture adhesive or dental cement, both of which can typically be found at a nearby pharmacy. Nonetheless, make sure to contact our Buzzards Bay practice to schedule an appointment for the reattachment or replacement of your restoration.

How to Prevent Dental Emergencies

No two dental emergencies are like, and their costs can vary wildly as well. Some symptoms may be treatable with a simple prescription, while others could require more involved reconstructive care, such as the placement of a dental implant or a custom-made dental crown. At Canal Side Family Dental, we will focus on providing relief first from serious pain and then create a comprehensive breakdown of further costs and care options so that patients have everything they need to make an informed decision. We will also be happy to file insurance claims and arrange affordable payment plans through CareCredit when needed.

The Cost of Treating Dental Emergencies

No two dental emergencies are like, and their costs can vary wildly as well. Some symptoms may be treatable with a simple prescription, while others could require more involved reconstructive care, such as the placement of a dental implant or a custom-made dental crown. At Canal Side Family Dental, we will focus on providing relief first from serious pain and then create a comprehensive breakdown of further costs and care options so that patients have everything they need to make an informed decision. We will also be happy to file insurance claims and arrange affordable payment plans through CareCredit when needed.