Dr. Matthew L. Bridges at Chisholm Trail Smile Center is your emergency dentist serving Duncan, OK and surrounding areas.
Emergency Dental Care
Unforeseen dental emergencies happen. Knowing how to handle these situations before they occur can reduce your anxiety and help keep you calm. At Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK, patient health is our top priority. If you are experiencing a toothache or oral discomfort, call our office so we can alleviate your pain and help you return to normal life. Dr. Matthew L. Bridges provides emergency dental care for the entire family during our regular office hours. Rest assured, we will be here for you when the unexpected happens.
Importance of Seeking Emergency Treatment
If you experience a dental emergency, it is best to seek assistance as soon as possible. Many issues can be resolved successfully when treated quickly. By visiting your dentist or your local emergency room right away, you are giving yourself the best chance for a successful recovery.
Signs of a Dental Emergency
A dental emergency is often the result of trauma, such as a car accident or a sports-related injury. However, sometimes problems can manifest quickly without warning. Contact our office right away if you experience:
- A toothache or acute mouth pain
- A loose or knocked-out tooth
- Facial swelling
- Excessive bleeding
- Intense temperature sensitivity
- Swollen gums
How to Handle Common Dental Emergencies
The best thing to do in an emergency situation is to stay calm and call our office. Our team can help you assess the problem and determine the best course of action. Listed below are some common dental emergencies and how to handle them:
- Loose Tooth: In many cases, Dr. Bridges can stabilize a loose tooth by splinting it to an adjacent tooth. It is important to see us as soon as possible to reduce the chance of tooth loss.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Call our office immediately in the event of a knocked-out tooth. In some cases, a lost tooth can be saved. It is important to address the issue immediately. While you are on your way to our office, gently replace the tooth back in the socket if possible. If that cannot be done, keep the tooth hydrated by holding it in your mouth or in a cup of milk.
- Tooth Abscess: One of the most common dental emergencies, a tooth abscess can result in extreme facial swelling and pain. It is important to seek treatment immediately to keep the infection from spreading to adjacent teeth and bone.
- Fractured Tooth: In some cases, trauma can result in a fractured tooth. Superficial cracks and chips can be treated cosmetically. However, if a fracture extends down the entire length of the tooth, or if it causes pain or discomfort, call our office immediately.
- Tissue Trauma: If you experience tissue trauma, call us so we can help you determine what should be done. Trauma of the tissue is indicated by bleeding or swelling of the gums, lips, tongue, or any soft tissues inside the oral cavity.
- Loose Dental Crown: Although a loose crown may not be cause for alarm, it can be quite uncomfortable. If you notice a loose crown, or if a crown comes off, call our office to schedule an appointment.
How to Avoid a Dental Emergency
Although it is not possible to completely avoid accidents, there are a few things you can do to minimize the chances of a traumatic situation. A few recommendations include:
- Avoid chewing hard foods, such as hard candy, ice, or popcorn kernels.
- Wear a mouth guard while playing contact sports of any kind.
- Never use your teeth as tools for opening or cutting things.