Philadelphia dentist explains what to do when you need emergency dental treatment

Most patients visit the dentist twice a year for a check-up and cleaning and are done. However, if you experience an event that requires emergency dental treatment, it’s important to understand what to do, including when to alert the dentist.

What are dental emergencies?

Dental emergencies encompass many events including:

• Throbbing or pain in the tooth
• Sudden onset of sensitivity
• Trauma or injury that causes loss of a tooth

Losing a permanent tooth is a common dental emergency. It can happen during sports, an accident, or a fall. Whether it’s happening to you, a family member, or friend, Dr. Spilkia offers the following advice:

• Determine whether the injury possess a medical threat such as traumatic head injury. If there is loss of consciousness or a severe injury, always call 911 first.
• If the person appears to be alert and okay outside of the missing tooth, try to carefully collect the tooth without touching the root. Avoid rinsing the tooth.
• Rinse the mouth out with warm water and attempt to place the tooth in the socket. Biting on gauze can help keep it in place. If unable to place the tooth in the socket, putting it in a glass of milk can help preserve it.
• Use gentle pressure and sterile gauze to control bleeding.
• Call the dentist as soon as possible.

Time matters with the sudden loss of a tooth, it is important to seek emergency dental treatment immediately.

Dr. Spilkia and his compassionate team have been serving the Philadelphia community for many years. When it comes to dental emergencies, the staff is committed to providing the same high quality of care patients are used to at every visit.

If you experience tooth loss or dental emergency, call our office for further instructions on the best way to handle the situation.

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