Wondering If It’s Really a Dental Emergency in Lancaster?

ER visits for issues that could be fixed at the dentist’s are on the rise — especially around this time of year. Unfortunately, these preventable or unnecessary dental visits to the emergency room are a drain on everyone’s resources. The problem could often be solved more quickly and effectively at your dentist’s office.

But what counts as a dental emergency? At Lancaster Family Smiles, Dr. Gupta treats anything that involves a break, pain that won’t go away, or broken/bleeding soft oral tissue as urgent situations.

With frequent travel and a break from the routine this holiday season, you and your loved ones are at an increased risk of experiencing a dental emergency. Contact your emergency dentist as soon as one happens to you. And in the meantime, take heed of these important tips to help you keep your calm and, when all goes well, save the tooth.

Knocked Out Tooth? Act Quickly

Teeth that have been knocked out of the gumline require immediate treatment. A tooth that remains out of the gums for longer than two hours is unlikely to be successfully reattached. Immediately after a tooth has been lost, first collect the tooth by its crown, being careful not to touch its root. Rinse away any debris and try to store the tooth in its empty socket. Bite down on the tooth to keep it in place. If you can’t get the tooth back into the gum line, place it in a cup of milk or water until you can reach Lancaster Family Smiles for immediate attention.

Be Gentle With a Loose or Dislodged Tooth

Maybe the tooth wasn’t completely knocked out. If your tooth was merely knocked loose or out of its usual place, contact your dentist immediately to receive urgent attention. Then try to gently work the tooth back into its original position. Use your finger or tongue to try to reposition the tooth; never approach it with a foreign object or tool.

Slow Bleeding, Reduce Swelling, Alleviate Pain

Three things you are likely to experience with any dental emergency are bleeding, inflammation, and discomfort. Until you can reach your dentist’s office, place firm but gentle pressure on the wound to slow or stop bleeding. Reduce swelling by applying an ice pack in 10 or 15-minute intervals. Wrap the ice pack in a clean cloth to protect your facial tissue. Take acetaminophen to alleviate pain — avoid aspirin, which can prevent blood clots and lead to excessive bleeding.

Keep Our Number Handy

The easiest way to remain calm in a dental emergency? Knowing who to call. Avoid unnecessary trips to the emergency room by turning to your emergency dentist in Lancaster, Dr. Mahima Gupta. We are even here on Sundays for our existing patients!

Call us as soon as you or someone you love experience an urgent dental situation. We’ll get you out of pain and back to your routine as soon as possible.