Emergency Dentistry
Emergency Dentistry at Diggers Rest, Caroline Springs, Hillside, Taylors Lake and Sydenham
What is a Dental Emergency?
What is a Dental Emergency?
Dental emergencies are commonly due to trauma or accidents that damage the teeth. However, accidents are not the only cause of a dental emergency, sometimes a hidden infection can spread and cause a toothache or decay deep into a tooth root. We understand this can happen to anyone and are here to help with compassion and a gentle touch. Some of the most common dental emergencies we see include the following:
Our Happy Patient
Treating Dental Emergencies at Diggers Rest Dental House
When You Have a Dental Emergency…
When You Have a Dental Emergency…
Experiencing fear and panic are normal reactions to an emergency, even a dental emergency. But the best thing you can do for yourself is to stay calm and call us to schedule an appointment. Let us know it is an emergency so we can schedule you accordingly. Then be proactive in helping yourself at home until your appointment with us.
The following guide offers some suggestions to do at home:
Toothache or Pain
Pain is a warning sign that something is wrong and requires your attention. Sometimes it may feel like the right thing to do is wait for it to go away. In some cases, food debris can aggravate a situation like a cavity and cause pain, which goes away when the debris is swept away.
However, if there is a problem like a cavity or hidden decay, it will not go away, even if the pain seems to subside. If left untreated, a little decay can cause a large cavity, spreading infection and a need for root canal therapy. Scheduling an appointment with us can help us find the problem and treat it before it gets worse.
Until then, try these tips:
- Gently brush and floss to remove food particles
- Gently rinse with warm saltwater
- Take over-the-counter medication for pain relief if necessary
Knocked-Out Teeth
Sport-related trauma and injuries are one of the most common forms of dental emergency that we deal with at Diggers Rest Dental House. If your tooth gets knocked out, there is a chance we can save it. Find the tooth and place it in a container of either whole fat milk or mild saltwater, handling the tooth only by the crown and avoiding touching the root. It is important that you resist washing it with tap water! But do call us right away and inform us of the situation. In many cases, the tooth can be successfully placed and reattached if the procedure is done within 20 minutes.
Broken Teeth
Chipped or Cracked Teeth
Rinse your mouth with tepid salt water and take over-the-counter pain medication, if needed. Call for an appointment and schedule a visit right away. Be sure to inform us it is a dental emergency. In many cases, we can save the tooth with dental bonding, a veneer or a dental crown and protect it from further damage and save your tooth.
Facial Swelling
Facial swelling is often an indication of an infection.
Apply a cool compress on the area of the face where your swelling is and use an over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen to reduce the swelling and manage the pain.
It is imperative to call and schedule a visit with us before the infection spreads and causes worse dental problems or even health issues.
Call for Emergency Dentistry at Diggers Rest Dental House
When it comes to your teeth, seeking help right away is critical for proper treatment and to save your tooth or teeth. If a dental emergency arises and you contact our practice before 12pm Monday to Friday, we will guarantee a same-day appointment to assess your dental concern. We’ll see you on Monday if you get in touch with our practice over the weekend.
Don’t forget when you call to explain you are having a dental emergency so our team of skilled dental professionals can schedule your appointment and prepare for treatment.
Disclaimer: The material posted is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary with each patient. Any dental procedure carries risks and benefits. If you have any specific questions about any dental and/or medical matter, you should consult your dentist, physician or other professional healthcare providers.