Dental emergencies can be stressful and painful, but knowing how to handle them can make all the difference. At Mark Jefferies Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand the importance of timely and effective emergency dentistry. Here are the top five most common dental emergencies and what you can do to handle them until you can visit an emergency dentistry in Herndon, Virginia.

What is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any dental problem requiring immediate attention from a dentist to alleviate severe pain, stop bleeding, or prevent further damage to the teeth or gums. Dental emergencies can occur anytime, and knowing what constitutes a dental emergency can help you seek the proper treatment promptly. In general, if you are experiencing severe pain, bleeding, or trauma to the mouth, it is likely a dental emergency and requires immediate attention.

Types of Dental Emergencies: 

• Toothaches: Toothaches can arise from cavities, gum disease, and abscesses. To ease the pain, rinse your mouth with warm water, floss gently to remove any food particles trapped between your teeth, and take an over-the-counter pain reliever. If the pain persists, call our office to schedule an appointment.
• Broken or Chipped Teeth: If you have a fractured or chipped tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to your face to reduce swelling. Save any broken pieces if possible and bring them to your appointment. We can often repair the tooth with bonding or a dental crown.
• Knocked-Out Tooth: Time is of the essence if you have a knocked-out tooth. Rinse the tooth gently with water, not touching the root. Try to place the tooth back in its socket if possible. If you cannot reinsert the tooth, put it in a milk or saliva container and bring it to our office immediately.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: If you have a cut or injury to your gums, tongue, or cheeks, rinse your mouth with warm salt water, then apply a cold compress to your face to reduce swelling. If the bleeding does not stop or the injury is severe, seek emergency medical attention.

How to Stay Calm in a Dental Emergency:

Staying calm in the face of an emergency shows mental strength and maturity. It’ll help you make better decisions, act with precision, and address the problem from a better perspective. Keep calm with these tips and tricks: 

• Take deep breaths: Deep breathing is a great way to calm your nerves in stressful situations. Take slow, deep breaths to help you relax and clear your mind.
• Stay positive: Keep a positive attitude and focus on the fact that help is on the way. Remember that dental emergencies are common! Our team is here to support you every step of the way. 
• Distract yourself: If possible, try to distract yourself from the situation. Listen to music, read a book, or watch a funny video on your phone to help take your mind off the pain or discomfort.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking water can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It can also help to rinse your mouth with water if you have a dental emergency to help alleviate discomfort.
• Seek support: If you feel particularly anxious or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a friend or family member for support. Having someone to talk to can help you feel calmer and in control.

Emergency Dentistry in Herndon, Virginia

We hope this guide has provided valuable information on handling common dental emergencies. However, accidents can happen, and knowing what to do in a dental emergency is essential. Prevention is always the best solution, so maintain good oral hygiene habits and schedule regular check-ups with Dr. Mark Jefferies. If you experience any dental emergencies listed above or have concerns about oral health, don’t hesitate to contact us at Mark Jefferies Family & Cosmetic Dentistry!

As always, we’re ready to help when you need it most! Give us a call today to get started.