Whether you’re faced with a chipped front tooth or a throbbing toothache that’s keeping you up at night, dental emergencies can happen at any time.
Knowing what to do and where to go to get relief can make the situation a lot less stressful.
If you’ve never had to schedule urgent dental care, you’ve come to the right place.
Below you’ll find everything you need to know about handling a dental emergency, including when to schedule an appointment and what to expect during an emergency dentist visit in Reston, Virginia.
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
Not every toothache requires an immediate trip to the dentist. But, some situations really do require same-day attention.
Here are some signs that you should schedule an appointment right away:
- A loose or knocked out tooth
- Severe tooth pain
- Cracked or broken tooth
- Visible infection or abscess
- Swelling in the mouth or jaw
- Uncontrollable bleeding
- A loose or lost crown or bridge
If you’re experiencing any of the above, don’t want to call a clinic. The sooner you get the care you need, the lower the risk of lasting damage to your teeth.
What Happens During an Emergency Dentist Visit in Reston, Virginia?
Going to an emergency dental appointment can feel intimidating and scary, especially if you’re in pain. The good news is that the visit is usually straightforward.
Here’s a run down of what to expect during an emergency dentist visit in Reston, Virginia.
- Arrival and check in: After arriving at the clinic, you’ll first fill out some paperwork to provide details about your medical history, symptoms you’re experiencing, and any medications you’re taking. Let the staff know if your tooth has been knocked out or if you’re bleeding, as these problems can’t wait.
- Initial exam and x-rays: Once you’ve checked in and you’re in the chair,the dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth and teeth. If required, dental X-rays may be ordered to get a better look of what’s going on beneath the surface. X-rays can be used to detect deep cavities, infections, and fractures.
- Pain relief, if needed: If you’re experiencing intense pain, your dentist will provide relief to ease the discomfort. A numbing injection, antibiotics, and even a temporary filling can all be used to ease pain and to prevent the issue from getting worse.
- Discussion of treatment options: After the immediate problem is under control, your dentist will walk you through the next steps. This could mean scheduling an extraction, root canal, crown, or some other follow-up treatment.
How to Handle a Dental Emergency Before You Can Be Seen
Even if you have a same-day appointment, you’ll still have to wait a little to be seen by a dentist. In the meantime, check out these tips to help ease discomfort:
- If you have a toothache, rinse with lukewarm saltwater and take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
- If your tooth is broken, save any pieces and rinse your mouth with warm water.
- If your tooth has been knocked out, try to put it back into the socket without touching the root. If this isn’t possible, place the tooth in milk and get to a dentist within 60 minutes.
- If you’re experiencing swelling, use a cold compress.
Don’t Put Your Dental Health at Risk! Schedule an Appointment Today
No matter if you have a loose tooth, severe pain from a possible cavity, or swelling, don’t wait to get the care you need.
For urgent treatment, come to Perfect Smiles of Reston. We’re here to protect your teeth so that you can smile with confidence.
Contact us at today 703-982-7295 to schedule a same-day or next-day appointment.
