Emergency Dental Care: What to Do When Accidents Happen

Accidents can happen when you least expect them, and when they do, knowing what to do during a dental emergency in Jacksonville can save your teeth and prevent further damage. At Bartram Dental Center, Dr. Royce Barlow and Dr. Jason Lewis are ready to provide same-day emergency dental care for new and existing patients, ensuring you get the help you need right away.

What Qualifies As a Dental Emergency?

St. Augustine dental emergencies can range from sudden tooth pain to a knocked-out tooth. Some of the most common dental emergencies include:

  • Toothaches: Severe, persistent pain in a tooth could be a sign of an infection or damage to the tooth’s structure. While minor discomfort can often wait for a scheduled appointment, severe pain needs immediate attention.
  • Chipped or Broken Teeth: If a tooth is chipped or broken, it’s important to seek care quickly to prevent further damage or infection.
  • Knocked-Out Teeth: If a tooth is knocked out completely, there’s a short window of time in which it can be successfully reinserted. Acting fast is crucial.
  • Lost Fillings or Crowns: Losing a filling or crown can leave the tooth vulnerable to further damage or infection. It’s important to have it replaced as soon as possible.
  • Abscesses or Infections: Any signs of swelling, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth could indicate an infection or abscess, which requires prompt care to prevent it from spreading.

If you experience any of these issues, it’s important to call Bartram Dental Center right away to schedule same-day emergency care.

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Knowing how to handle a dental emergency in Ponte Vedra before you get to the office can make a significant difference in the outcome. Here are a few immediate steps you can take:

  • How can I manage a severe toothache until I can see the dentist? Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area, and gently floss to remove any trapped debris. Avoid placing aspirin or other painkillers directly on the gums, as this can cause irritation.
  • What should I do if I break or chip a tooth? Rinse your mouth with warm water and, if possible, save any broken pieces of the tooth. Apply gauze to any bleeding areas and use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
  • What should I do if I knock out a tooth? Be sure to handle the tooth by the crown (the part you chew with), not the root. Rinse it gently with water, but don’t scrub it. If possible, try to place the tooth back in its socket or keep it moist by putting it in a container of milk or saliva.
  • Can I wait to fix a lost filling or crown? If a crown falls off, you can try temporarily placing it back over the tooth using dental cement or toothpaste until you can get to the office. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.

Why Choose Bartram Dental Center for Emergency Dental Care?

Dr. Barlow and Dr. Lewis, along with the entire team at Bartram Dental Center, understand the urgency of St. Johns dental emergencies and are committed to providing quick, efficient care. Offering same-day emergency appointments for both new and existing patients, our team works tirelessly to ensure you find relief quickly and return to your daily routine as soon as possible.

When accidents happen, you can count on Bartram Dental Center to handle your emergency with care, helping you protect your oral health and restore your smile.

About The Author

Jason D. Lewis boasts training in dental implant surgery, Invisalign, oral conscious sedation, and sleep dentistry. He has also trained in advanced bone grafting and 3D implant design, and is certified in oral conscious sedation. Dr. Lewis is an active member of the Florida Academy of General Dentistry, the Florida Dental Association, and the Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine.

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