A dental emergency can happen when you least expect it, and having a trusted team to turn to can make all the difference. For many families in Pleasant Hill, California, Nupur Gupta, DDS, and her team at Perfect Smiles Dental of Pleasant Hill is a valuable resource if and when a dental emergency occurs. Walk-in and same-day appointments are available, and less urgent visits can always be booked online or over the phone.
Emergency Dentistry Q & A
What is a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is an oral health need that cannot wait until a regularly scheduled visit with your dentist. There are numerous issues that can qualify as a dental emergency, and if you have questions about your specific needs, simply call the office.
Some examples of dental emergencies include:
- Knocked out tooth
- Chipped, cracked, or fractured tooth
- Severe dental pain
- Abscess
- Severe infection
- Traumatic injury to your gums or other soft tissues in your mouth
If you encounter a sudden dental issue, reach out to the Perfect Smiles Dental of Pleasant Hill team for guidance.
What should I do for a knocked out tooth?
Having a tooth knocked out is one of the most common dental emergencies. It’s important to know what to do if this issue arises, because prompt action can be the difference between saving or losing the tooth.
First, pick up the tooth, taking care not to touch the root portion. If you disturb the cells on the root of the tooth it may be impossible to save it. If the tooth is dirty, use clean water to very gently rinse it off.
Try to reposition the tooth in the socket. One way to hold it in place is to gently bite down on a clean piece of gauze. You can also hold the tooth in place with your finger. If you cannot place it in its socket, hold it in the space between your gums and cheek. Alternatively, you can place it in a small container and cover it with milk.
Call Dr. Gupta as soon as possible to set up an emergency visit.
Are there steps I can take to prevent a dental emergency?
Some dental emergencies cannot be prevented, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. If you participate in athletic or fitness pursuits, be sure to wear the proper protective gear.
Helmets, face shields, and mouthguards can all help protect your teeth. A custom-fitted mouthguard is a better option than over-the-counter guards. If your mouthguard fits well, you are more likely to use it.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is also important and can prevent severe pain from an infection, abscess, or advanced decay. Schedule routine dental exams and cleanings to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible.
If you or a loved one suffers a dental emergency, call the office or use the online scheduler to set up a same-day visit, or simply come in to be seen on a walk-in basis during business hours.