What to do During a Dental Emergency

You can’t prepare for a dental emergency, and they usually can’t be avoided. Therefore, when problems arise, patients don’t always know how to handle them. Should you go to the ER? Is it safe to wait until the dental office opens? Could you even wait until your next routine check-up? Chances are, the correct answer is no to all the above. Your Lincoln dentist is always available when you need help.

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There are four steps you should take to keep yourself pain-free and safeguard your health.

1. Call our Team Right Away: When faced with a dental emergency, call your dentist in Lincoln NE, 68505, immediately. If your Lincoln dentist does not provide emergency care, consider finding one who offers this service. When you contact your emergency dentist, a staff member will assist you. You should receive instructions over the phone on how to relieve pain and manage the problem temporarily. This is also the time to ask any questions and book an appointment.

2. Keep the Area Clean and Stop Bleeding: First and foremost, it is important to control any bleeding and gently clean the injured area. Use only cool water to clear away any dirt or debris. Never brush the affected area unless your dentist near Meadowlane instructs you to do so. Use a clean cloth or sterile gauze to apply gentle pressure to control bleeding. If this isn’t enough, apply a cold compress.

3. Retrieve Any Knocked Out Teeth or Restorations: If you knocked out a tooth or a dental restoration, be sure to look for it immediately. If possible, a whole or partially avulsed tooth can be put back in place. If you can’t locate the tooth or if a piece is missing, store what you have in milk or cool water until you can get to the dental office.

4. Take Pain Relievers & Use Ice Packs: Take OTC pain relievers as directed to manage pain. Do not apply aspirin directly to the affected area. This can cause more damage. Instead, apply ice to prevent swelling and reduce pain. Put the cold compress on the cheek outside the damaged tooth every 20 minutes as long as the discomfort continues.

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At Lincoln Dental Associates, our dental team makes every visit as pleasant and stress-free as possible. Emergency care appointments are no different. We understand that these are worrisome situations. For that reason, we are here to help relieve your pain and anxiety. So, when faced with a dental emergency, call your dental team right away.