Whether you knocked out a tooth during a fierce game of football or chipped a tooth crunching on a stale snack, you’ll want to visit the dentist as soon as possible. Anyone can accidentally damage their smile, but it’s important to act fast, so you can save the tooth. Here are three common emergencies that require assistance from the dentist. 

3 Common Dental Issues That Require Immediate Care

1. Extreme Tooth Pain

Intense pain commonly indicates issues such as oral infections or abscesses, and you shouldn’t treat that yourself or wait for it to get better. These problems can lead to damaged tissue and teeth, and an infection could spread to the rest of the body. Hold an ice pack over the area to alleviate pain and schedule an appointment with the dentist.

2. Chipped or Knocked-Out Tooth 

If you can find the knocked-out tooth or the cracked portion, hold onto it and store it in the side of your cheek or a cup of milk. You can also use an ice pack and over-the-counter pain medication to reduce discomfort in the meantime. The highest chance of saving the tooth is seeing your dentist within an hour of it falling out.

3. Loose Dental Crown

If you had a temporary dental crown put in and it gets knocked out or starts to feel loose, try to avoid swallowing it. Put a small amount of petroleum jelly on the back of the crown and place it back on the tooth. Your dentist can reattach it again easily. 

Whether you’ve had a recent dental emergency or you need a routine cleaning and checkup, visit Tkatch Dentistry in High Point, NC. Their team of dentists and dental hygienists value their patients and offer advanced, experienced care for whatever issue you experience with your smile. They offer restorative, cosmetic, and general dentistry services, including dental implants, crowns, and veneers. To learn more information about their practice, visit their website or call (336) 889-9916 to schedule your appointment.