If you have a dental problem, it’s imperative to make an appointment with your dentist. However, in some cases, an oral issue is considered a dental emergency that requires immediate attention. If this happens, you can improve the outcome greatly if you know steps to take.

3 Dental Emergencies & How to Handle Them

1. Swollen Face

A swollen face may indicate a serious dental emergency. In may cases, this symptom is triggered by an infection in a tooth, the jaw bone, or the gums. If your cheeks get puffy, see a dentist right away. If it’s after hours, go to the hospital. In the meantime, stay upright and drink plenty of fluids.

2. Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency because without immediate treatment, it can’t be re-implanted. As it is, there is a chance that even your dentist won’t be able to replace the tooth no matter how quickly you visit them. If you lose a tooth, pick it up by the crown to avoid root damage and try to reinsert it back into your mouth. If an emergency dentist is not available, head to the emergency room.

3. Chipped or Broken Tooth

While your teeth are resilient, it is possible for them to chip or break. Fortunately, a small crack can be repaired by a filling and doesn’t usually require immediate attention. If your tooth breaks, you may be able to wait a few days before having it fixed. However, you may notice sensitivity to cold and heat. Depending on how bad the damage is, you can expect to get a filling or a dental crown. Unfortunately, if the tooth is cracked all the way through, you may need a tooth extraction.

Are you dealing with a dental emergency? Give the staff at First Impressions Dentistry a call at (513) 772-8840. They offer cosmetic dentistry in addition to regular dental services. Visit their website to learn more about the dental office and their offerings in Cincinnati, OH.