Emergency dentistry is the dental equivalent of urgent medical care, addressing sudden and often painful dental issues that require prompt attention. It provides rapid relief from severe dental pain caused by issues like toothaches, broken teeth or abscesses. This immediate pain relief can be a tremendous source of comfort for patients in distress.
Emergency dentistry is vital for preventing further damage to your oral health. Quick intervention can prevent minor problems from escalating into major dental issues, saving you time, money and potential discomfort down the road. By addressing dental emergencies promptly, you also preserve the integrity of your teeth and gums, ensuring your oral health remains intact.
Emergencies can strike at any time, and you might need emergency dentistry if you experience:
- Severe Toothaches: Persistent, unbearable tooth pain can signal an underlying issue that needs immediate attention.
- Fractured or Knocked-Out Teeth: Accidents or injuries can result in broken or knocked-out teeth, which require swift repair.
- Abscesses or Infections: Oral infections can quickly become life-threatening if left untreated.
- Lost Fillings or Crowns: These situations can expose sensitive dental structures and require prompt replacement.
When you seek emergency dentistry, you can expect:
- Rapid Assessment: Our dentist will assess the issue promptly, often with diagnostic tools like X-rays.
- Immediate Treatment: Depending on the problem, we will provide the necessary treatment, which may include fillings, extractions or pain relief.
- Follow-Up Care: You may need additional visits for complete treatment or to monitor your progress.
Emergency Dental Care FAQ
What is a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation involving your teeth or gums that requires immediate attention to alleviate severe pain, stop bleeding or save a tooth. Common dental emergencies include:
- Knocked-out teeth
- Severe toothaches or pain
- Broken or cracked teeth
- Soft tissue injuries like cuts or punctures
Abscesses or infections that cause significant swelling and pain also qualify as emergencies. If you are unsure whether your situation is urgent, please contact Dental on the Hudson at 718-601-2685 and speak with our dentist or a member of our team for guidance.
What do I do if I have a dental emergency?
If you experience a dental emergency, the first step is to remain calm. Contact our dentist and team immediately and explain your situation. If a tooth is knocked out, try to place it back in the socket without touching the root or keep it in a container of milk until you reach our office. For severe pain or swelling, over-the-counter pain relievers can help until you receive professional care.
What if I can’t get to the dentist right away?
If you cannot get to the dentist right away, there are a few steps you can take to manage the situation temporarily. For severe pain, use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. If you have a broken tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Avoid eating hard or sticky foods that could worsen the issue. For a knocked-out tooth, keep it moist in milk or saliva. Contact us as soon as possible to schedule an emergency appointment.
What are the consequences of avoiding emergency dental treatment?
If you put off receiving urgent treatment, you run the risk of the problem becoming worse. If your emergency becomes more severe, it may be necessary for our dentist to perform more extensive and costly procedures to resolve the issue. You could also cause permanent damage, such as a tooth falling out or needing or extraction.
Can I fix a broken filling or crown myself?
No. We strongly recommend that you do not attempt to fix any dental problems yourself. Please reach out to our team if you have a broken filling or crown, or any other dental emergency. By seeing our dentist without delay, you can receive a temporary treatment to alleviate your discomfort while a permanent solution is created.
Emergency dentistry in Riverdale, New York, is a vital service that ensures your dental health remains intact, even in the face of sudden crises. Do not hesitate to seek help when dental emergencies arise by calling Dental on the Hudson immediately at 718-601-2685. We can help schedule an impromptu appointment with our dentist, Dr. Samuel Rosenbaum to get you back to your optimal oral health.