Dental Emergencies

Life doesn't always cooperate with scheduled appointments. Our dentists and staff are always available if you have questions or concerns. But just in case, here are some pointers on how to handle some of the most common emergencies so you'll know what you can do until you can get into a dental clinic or Pretty Smile Dental.

Loss of a Crown or Implant

Don't worry! A little petroleum jelly (for example, Vaseline) or denture adhesive gel can help. Put a little bit inside the crown, put the crown back over your tooth (it should be easy to find the right orientation, as it will only fit one way), and gradually bite down. That should push the crown back into place.

Broken Tooth or Filling

Of course you should call us right away. But you don't need to do too much to the tooth before you get into the clinic. Just avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and avoid touching the tooth -- even with your tongue. If your tooth hurts, an over-the-counter remedy like ibuprofen or Orajel should do the trick until you can get into the clinic.

Broken Baby Tooth

Clean your child's mouth with warm salt water and make sure your child has no signs of other facial injuries. Check to make sure the tooth is a baby tooth and not an adult tooth. If you think there's a chance that it's an adult tooth, put the tooth in milk and bring it with you to the clinic when you bring in your child.

Knocked-out Adult Tooth

You will need to act quickly, but there is a chance to save the tooth. First, hold the tooth by the top (and not the roots) and try to put it back in its socket. If you can't do that, put the tooth in milk or hold it gently in your mouth between your cheek and gum until you can get into the clinic.

Tooth Pushed or Knocked Out of Alignment

Don't try to push the tooth back into place yourself - you don't want to risk shifting the alignment of your other teeth. Call us for an emergency appointment and take an over-the-counter pain medication until you can get into the clinic.

Strong Pain and Swelling Outside of Office Hours

If over-the counter pain relievers aren't working, please call us and we will get you on the schedule to be seen right away or in the early morning of next day.

Even though you may have heard of it as a home remedy, don't put aspirin directly on your teeth or gums.

And remember: The best way to keep dental emergencies from happening in the first place is to get regular check-ups and take good care of your smile.