Dental emergencies can strike unexpectedly — a chipped tooth while eating, sudden swelling, or a knocked-out tooth from an accident. These moments can be painful and stressful, but knowing how to act quickly and where to go can significantly improve your outcome. If you’re in Riverview, FL and unsure of what to do in a dental emergency, this guide will help you stay prepared.
What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any issue involving the teeth or gums that needs immediate treatment to alleviate pain, stop bleeding, or save a tooth. Common dental emergencies include:
- Persistent or severe toothache
- Broken, chipped, or cracked teeth
- Knocked-out or loose teeth
- Lost crowns or fillings
- Swelling of the gums or face
- Uncontrollable oral bleeding
- Dental abscesses or infections (fever, swelling, bad taste)
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your trusted Riverview dentist without delay.
Immediate Steps to Take During a Dental Emergency
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
Panicking can make the situation worse. Take a moment to breathe, then examine the issue. Identifying the type of emergency helps determine the next steps.
2. Stop Any Bleeding
Use clean gauze or a cloth to apply gentle pressure to the affected area. If bleeding doesn’t stop within 10 minutes, go to an emergency room immediately.
3. Save the Tooth or Dental Fragment
For knocked-out teeth, pick the tooth up by the crown (not the root), rinse it gently, and try to place it back in its socket. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or your saliva and head to a dentist within 30 minutes if possible.
4. Manage Pain and Swelling
Use a cold compress on your cheek to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help reduce discomfort. Avoid aspirin if there’s active bleeding, as it may worsen it.
5. Call a Dentist in Riverview Immediately
Time is crucial in a dental emergency. Contact a local Riverview dental office as soon as possible. Let them know your symptoms and the nature of your emergency so they can prioritize your care.
Dental Emergency or ER Visit: How to Decide
Knowing whether to visit a dentist or head to the emergency room can be tricky. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Visit the Emergency Room if:
- You have a broken jaw or facial trauma
- There’s severe bleeding that won’t stop
- Swelling is impacting your breathing or swallowing
- You have a high fever due to a spreading infection
Visit a Riverview dentist if:
- You have a severe toothache
- A tooth is knocked out, cracked, or broken
- You’ve lost a filling or crown
- You suspect a dental abscess, but it’s not life-threatening
Dentists are equipped to handle most oral health issues quickly and efficiently, while hospitals are best suited for life-threatening emergencies.
Preventing Dental Emergencies in Everyday Life
While not all dental emergencies can be avoided, you can take steps to reduce the risk:
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activity
- Avoid chewing hard foods like ice, bones, or hard candy
- Maintain regular dental visits with your Riverview dentist
- Don’t ignore early signs of dental issues
- Practice daily brushing and flossing
Preventive care and awareness can go a long way in protecting your oral health.
Why Timely Dental Care Matters
Delaying treatment can have serious consequences, such as:
- Worsening pain and infection
- Permanent damage to teeth or gums
- The need for more extensive (and costly) treatments
- Overall health risks from spreading infection
That’s why it’s crucial to know who to contact and act quickly when a dental emergency arises.
Need Emergency Dental Care in Riverview, FL?
If you’re in Riverview and dealing with a dental emergency, you don’t have to look far. Everglades Dental Studio offers emergency dental care with a gentle and experienced team ready to help. Located conveniently in Riverview, FL, Everglades Dental Studio provides prompt, compassionate treatment to help you find relief fast.
In pain or facing a dental emergency? Contact Everglades Dental Studio today for trusted emergency dental care right here in Riverview. Your smile and comfort are our priority.
