A sudden, throbbing toothache, a chipped tooth from a sports accident, or a knocked-out tooth can be a frightening experience. When a dental emergency strikes, knowing what to do and who to call can make all the difference in saving a tooth and preventing further damage.
At SpringLake Dental, we understand that these situations are stressful. That’s why Dr. Harlovjeet Singh and our team are here to provide swift, compassionate care when you need it most. If you’re facing a dental emergency in Woodland, we are ready to help.
Here is a guide on how to handle common dental emergencies and why you should seek professional help immediately.
What is a True Dental Emergency?
Some situations are urgent and require immediate professional attention. Call our office right away if you experience any of the following:
- A Severe, Persistent Toothache: This can be a sign of a serious infection, such as an abscess, which needs to be treated promptly.
- A Knocked-Out (Avulsed) Tooth: Time is critical for saving a tooth. The sooner you get to the dentist, the better the chance of it being successfully re-implanted.
- A Cracked or Broken Tooth: This can expose the sensitive inner layers of your tooth, causing pain and risk of infection.
- An Abscess: This is a painful, pus-filled pocket that forms at the tooth root. It may cause swelling of the gums or face and can lead to fever. This is a life-threatening situation if left untreated.
- A Lost Filling or Crown with Pain: While not all lost restorations are emergencies, if you are in pain, it’s best to get it checked to prevent further decay or damage to the tooth.
- Bleeding from the Mouth: Any significant or uncontrollable bleeding from the gums, tongue, or cheeks after an injury requires immediate care.
What to Do Right Now (Before You Get to the Dentist)
While you should call us immediately, these first-aid steps can help manage the situation until you arrive at our office:
- For a Toothache: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area. You can also apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling. Do not put aspirin directly on the gums or tooth.
- For a Knocked-Out Tooth: Gently pick up the tooth by the crown (the top part), avoiding the root. If it’s dirty, rinse it briefly with milk or water. If possible, try to place it back in its socket. If not, store it in a container of milk or your own saliva and bring it with you.
- For a Cracked Tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to minimize swelling.
- For an Object Stuck Between Your Teeth: Try to gently remove it with dental floss. Do not use a sharp or pointed object to dislodge it.
The Importance of Immediate Care
Delaying treatment for a dental emergency can lead to more serious problems, including severe infection, increased pain, and even the loss of your tooth. Our team is equipped to handle these urgent situations with care and expertise, focusing on pain relief and preserving your oral health.
We understand that dental emergencies don’t happen on a schedule. That’s why we prioritize these cases to get you out of pain and back to your life as quickly as possible.
Don’t Wait—We Are Here to Help
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, don’t hesitate. Call SpringLake Dental immediately at (530) 406-1730. We will provide you with clear instructions and get you scheduled for an emergency appointment as soon as possible. Our office is located at 1837 East Gibson Road Suite #D, Woodland, CA 95776, and we are ready to assist you.
