A Dentist for Dental Emergencies in Salem, NH
When a dental emergency strikes, having a dentist near you can make all the difference. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, a severe toothache, or a broken crown, immediate dental care is crucial. At our dental practice in Salem, NH, we are equipped to handle various dental emergencies with promptness and efficiency. Our dentist’s main goal is to get you out of pain and make sure you are not in any danger, ensuring that you and your family receive the care you need when you need it most.
What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency includes any situation involving your teeth, gums, or jaw that requires immediate attention. Common examples include:
- Severe Toothache: Pain that is persistent and intense can indicate an infection or abscess. This requires immediate attention in order to eliminate the pain, reduce inflammation, and reveres the infection before it becomes dangerous.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Immediate treatment can potentially save a tooth that has been dislodged. If the tooth cannot be saved, it may need to be replaced with a dental implant.
- Broken or Chipped Tooth: Particularly if it causes pain or there’s a sharp fragment that could injure your mouth. It can also be deemed a cosmetic emergency if you have an important presentation coming up.
- Lost Filling or Crown: This can cause severe discomfort and make the tooth susceptible to further damage. While not as urgent as other issues, it’s best to take care of it promptly
- Bleeding Gums: While some bleeding during brushing is common, excessive or spontaneous bleeding might indicate a more serious condition. Gum infection is the leading cause of bleeding gums and if left untreated it could lead to tooth loss.
How to Handle a Dental Emergency
- Stay Calm: Panic can worsen any emergency, so it’s important to stay calm and act swiftly.
- Contact Your Dentist Immediately: Most dental practices, like ours in Salem, NH, offer emergency dental treatment. We are here to assist you at our practice with timely advice and immediate emergency dental appointments.
- Manage Pain and Swelling: Use a cold compress to manage swelling and over-the-counter pain relief medication to alleviate discomfort until you can see a dentist.
- Preserve a Knocked-Out Tooth: If a tooth has been knocked out, gently rinse it without scrubbing. If possible, reinsert it into the socket, or keep it moist in milk until you can get professional help.
- Avoid Certain Foods: Stick to soft foods and avoid anything too hot, cold, or sugary until your appointment.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
While not all dental emergencies can be prevented, regular check-ups and good oral hygiene can reduce your risk. Protective gear like comfortable custom mouthguards during sports, avoiding hard foods that may crack your teeth, and never using your teeth to cut or open things can also help protect your dental health.
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency near Salem, don’t wait. Contact our dentist office in Salem immediately to get the care you need. We are here to help when you need us most.