Handling Dental Emergencies in Omaha: Tips for Quick Relief and Treatment
Life can be unpredictable at times, but it’s important to have plans set in place when experiencing any emergency, especially a dental emergency. A dental emergency is typically the result of trauma or injury to the face. Knowing what to do during a dental emergency can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth. Most dental emergencies require swift action and an immediate appointment. Our team of Nebraska dentists offers a wide range of comprehensive treatments, including emergency services. The following information will help you take the necessary steps before you receive emergency treatment.
What is Considered a Dental Emergency
Below is a list of common dental emergencies that patients experience:
Toothache
Toothaches are a common dental emergency, and a variety of issues can cause them. If you’re experiencing a toothache, start by rinsing your mouth with warm salt water. This can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. However, avoid aspirin as it can increase bleeding if your tooth is broken or you’re bleeding. Unexpected tooth pain that seems to appear with no injury may be the result of tooth infection and/or decay.
Chipped or broken tooth or filling
When a damaged tooth isn’t addressed, it can let in disease-causing bacteria that will create infection and decay. By being more prone to infections and decay, our dental team may suggest a dental crown, dental bonding, or even root canal therapy to improve the aesthetics and function of the tooth. If you’ve broken a tooth, try to find and save any broken pieces if possible. Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling. Avoid eating or drinking anything until you see a dentist.
Knocked-out tooth
If a tooth is knocked out, we recommend seeing a dentist as soon as possible. The sooner you address the tooth, the chances of saving a knocked-out tooth and restoring it in place.
Abscess
Infections in the mouth, especially near the root of a tooth or in the space between the teeth and gums, are serious and can be painful. If you are feeling discomfort, check your gums for a painful, irritated, pimple-like swollen spot. When abscess are untreated, they can spread to surrounding teeth and gum tissue, and even the rest of the body through bloodstream.
Swollen or bleeding gums
Excessive bleeding is typically the result of soft tissue injuries, including gums, tongue, cheeks, and lips. To help stop bleeding, rinse your mouth with a salt-water solution and apply a damp gauze pad to the bleeding area.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
- Use a mouthguard when participating in sports or recreational activities to avoid
- Oral examinations from our local dentists and recall visits, including routine X-rays
- Routine dental cleaning and preventive therapies
- Be mindful of things you chew (examples include biting fingernails and chewing on pen caps or other items that are not food).
If you are experiencing discomfort, our team leaves time available for emergency appointments – call us today!
What Helps with Excruciating Tooth Pain?
Excruciating tooth pain can be a sign of a dental emergency, and it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. However, if you’re experiencing severe tooth pain and can’t see our dentists immediately, you can do a few things to alleviate the discomfort.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain
- Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can also be helpful, as it can help to reduce swelling and kill bacteria
- Applying a cold compress to the affected area can also help to reduce swelling and numb the area, providing temporary relief
- It’s important to avoid hot or cold drinks and foods, as they can aggravate the pain
- Additionally, try to keep your head elevated when lying down to reduce blood flow to the area
While these home remedies can provide temporary relief, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible to address the underlying cause of the pain.
How Much Does an Emergency Dental Appointment Cost?
The cost of an emergency visit with our Omaha dentists depends on each individual case. Our dental clinic offers a wide range of financing options: we work with all insurances (excluding Medicaid), CareCredit, Cherry Financing, and our in-house savings plan to ensure you get the treatment you need at an affordable cost. A dental emergency in Omaha can be scary and painful, but our knowledge team is here to help you get the care you need.
Hopefully, you’ll never need to make use of this information, and the only times we’ll see you will be for normal appointments, but preparation is key! At Bel Drive Dental in Omaha, patients are our priority. To learn more about emergency care and services, contact our team of experts today at Bel Drive Dental Office Phone Number (402) 523-2705 or book an appointment online.