Your biannual checkup can help keep your teeth in good health. However, if you begin to experience discomfort or changes to your teeth, gums, or mouth, you should not wait until your next appointment to seek care. Plaza Family Dentistry in Kansas City, MO is here to help guide you through tooth or mouth-related injuries.
What Is Considered An Emergency
In dentistry, an emergency is considered to be any problem related to your teeth, gums, tongue, or mouth that needs urgent attention. For instance, if you experience a sudden toothache, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. At this appointment, they can examine the area and determine the cause. Then, a helpful treatment plan can be put in place. If you ignore these problems, you may put yourself at risk of further problems developing or an infection.
What To Do If You Harm Your Tooth
Trauma to your oral cavity can be caused by many things. Contact sports may put you at risk of breaking one of your pearly whites. Biting into something too hard could chip a tooth or break a restorative piece. It is also not uncommon to see debris lodged in the gumline or for a cavity to become infected. When this happens, it is important for you to stay calm and contact your dentist. From there, the staff can give you instructions to care for the problem while you wait.
For broken or cracked teeth, keep the pieces if you are able. In some cases, a fully knocked-out tooth may be able to be re-rooted. Or a prosthetic can be used to replace it. A dental crown can be placed over a damaged tooth to protect and restrengthen it. If the area is infected, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers for the time being. An infection may cause the area to be more sensitive and cause an ache or swelling. Applying an ice pack may be able to help alleviate some symptoms in the short term.
Prevention Is The Best Practices
Emergencies may not always be preventable, but there are ways to reduce your risk. Remember to take proper care of your oral cavity at home by brushing and flossing twice a day. This will help prevent cavities, which can lead to an infection if left untreated. Visit your dentist twice a year for a checkup and attend restorative treatments if they are scheduled. Restorations such as fillings and root canals can prevent decay from becoming a more serious problem.
We Provide Urgent Dental Care
If you have harmed a tooth, have an infection, or have a sudden onset of pain, we are here to help you. Call Plaza Family Dentistry in Kansas City, MO, at (816) 531-8000 to schedule an urgent appointment.
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