
Do I Need Emergency Dentistry?
Dental issues can arise unexpectedly, whether from sports injuries, falls, or accidents. Immediate treatment is essential for tooth damage or oral injuries. As your emergency dentist in Burlington, we offer prompt care to address urgent dental concerns.
A dental emergency involves any issue requiring immediate attention to save a tooth, stop bleeding, or alleviate severe pain. Infections or abscesses can be life-threatening and require swift care.
Dental First Aid - What To Do
Dental emergencies can be stressful, but staying calm and providing first aid can help manage the situation. Always seek professional care as soon as possible.
Here are practical tips for common dental emergencies:
Toothache
Apply a cold compress to the affected area. You can take a pain reliever like acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g., Advil) as directed by your doctor. Keep track of the medication taken and the time for your visit to us.
Knocked-Out Teeth
Quick action can help save your tooth. If the tooth is clean, gently reinsert it into the socket. If not, place the tooth in a cup of milk. Treatment is most effective within the first hour, so seek dental care as soon as possible.
Broken Teeth
Rinse your mouth with warm water to clear away fragments. Apply sterile gauze if bleeding persists. A cold compress can help reduce pain and swelling. Contact us right away for prompt care to restore your tooth.
Abscess
Abscesses are infections near the tooth root or between the teeth and gums. Left untreated, they can spread and cause serious health issues. For relief, rinse with a mild saltwater solution (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) several times a day until you can see your dentist. Immediate care is necessary to prevent further complications.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
While the dental first aid tips above are helpful, the best first step is always to call us! We will guide you over the phone to help alleviate your pain, save your tooth, and get you the care you need as quickly as possible.
Always follow your doctor’s advice and read the instructions on the bottle before taking any medication. If it’s safe for you, you may take a pain reliever like Tylenol, Advil, or Aspirin to ease the pain. However, this is not a permanent solution. Dental pain is often nerve-related, and the only lasting relief will come from professional treatment. Keep track of the medication you take, how much, and when, so we know when you come in.
Yes, the ER will treat you and bill your health insurance. However, they may only provide temporary pain relief and are not equipped to treat dental problems unless they involve a broader health emergency. You should still see a dentist for comprehensive care.
A broken tooth can collect bacteria, leading to infection or abscess formation. It may also cause nerve damage, potentially requiring a root canal to address.
If an abscess ruptures, you may experience pain relief, but you still need dental treatment. If it doesn’t drain, the infection could spread to your jaw, neck, and head, and may even lead to sepsis—a life-threatening condition that spreads throughout your body. Immediate dental care is essential.