When it comes to dental emergencies, time is of the essence. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, severe tooth pain, or an unexpected injury, knowing what to do in urgent situations can make a significant difference in preserving your oral health. At Mission Dental, led by Dr. Makeya Jenkins, we understand the anxiety that can come with a dental emergency. Our team is here to guide you through these moments with expert advice, care, and compassion. Located conveniently in Antioch, Brentwood, La Vergne, Oak Hill, Berry Hill, Forest Hills, and Donelson, we are ready to help you when you need us most.
Understanding Common Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and it’s crucial to act quickly to avoid long-term damage. Here are some of the most common emergencies we treat at Mission Dental:
- ToothacheA sudden, sharp, or throbbing toothache can be a sign of an underlying problem such as a cavity, infection, or even gum disease. While the pain may be bearable at first, it can quickly escalate and become severe.
- Knocked-Out ToothA tooth that has been completely knocked out due to an injury or accident requires immediate attention. The faster you act, the higher the chance of saving the tooth.
- Cracked or Broken ToothCracked teeth, whether due to injury or chewing on hard objects, can be painful and prone to further damage. Depending on the severity, your tooth may need a dental crown or root canal treatment.
- Lost Filling or CrownIf you lose a filling or crown, it can expose the sensitive parts of your tooth to air and food, causing discomfort and increasing the risk of infection.
- Abscesses or InfectionsA dental abscess is an infection that can cause severe pain, swelling, and even fever. It’s essential to seek treatment right away to prevent the infection from spreading.
Steps to Take During a Dental Emergency
Knowing how to react in an emergency can help alleviate pain and prevent further damage. Here are some practical steps to take:
- Toothache
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
- Use dental floss to remove any food particles that may be causing irritation.
- Apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling.
- Avoid using aspirin directly on the affected area, as it can irritate your gums.
- Contact Mission Dental at (615) 366-4141 to schedule an emergency appointment.
- Knocked-Out Tooth
- Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root) to avoid damaging it.
- Rinse the tooth gently with water to remove dirt (never scrub it).
- If possible, place the tooth back into its socket. If this isn’t possible, place it in a container of milk or saliva to keep it moist.
- Seek emergency dental care as soon as possible. Call us at (615) 366-4141 for immediate assistance.
- Cracked or Broken Tooth
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it.
- Apply a cold compress to your face to reduce swelling.
- Save any broken pieces of the tooth and bring them to your appointment.
- Call Mission Dental immediately to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jenkins.
- Lost Filling or Crown
- If you lose a filling, try placing a piece of sugar-free gum into the cavity to temporarily cover it until you can visit the dentist.
- If you lose a crown, try using dental adhesive (available at most pharmacies) to temporarily place it back.
- Call Mission Dental to schedule a visit and get a new crown or filling.
- Abscess or Infection
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to help reduce swelling.
- Avoid chewing on the side of the affected area.
- Contact Mission Dental immediately to address the infection before it spreads.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Seek Treatment
It’s easy to think that dental issues will resolve on their own, but dental emergencies require professional care. Delaying treatment can lead to more serious problems, such as:
- Increased pain
- Tooth loss
- Spread of infection
- The need for more invasive treatments like root canals or extractions
At Mission Dental, we encourage patients to seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid complications. Dr. Jenkins and our dedicated team are here to provide timely, compassionate care.
How Mission Dental Can Help
At Mission Dental, we provide emergency dental care for residents in Antioch, Brentwood, La Vergne, Oak Hill, Berry Hill, Forest Hills, and Donelson. Our team is equipped with the latest technology and techniques to treat your dental emergency quickly and effectively. Dr. Makeya Jenkins and her team work diligently to alleviate your pain and restore your smile.
We also offer flexible scheduling, including emergency appointments. If you find yourself in need of urgent dental care, call us at (615) 366-4141 to book an appointment.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. How do I know if my dental issue is an emergency?
If you are experiencing severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or trauma to your teeth, it’s a good indication that you need emergency dental care. When in doubt, call Mission Dental for guidance.
2. Can I still save a knocked-out tooth?
Yes, if you act quickly (within 30 minutes to 1 hour), there is a good chance the tooth can be re-implanted. Be sure to store the tooth properly and get to the dentist as soon as possible.
3. What should I do if I can’t get to the dentist right away?
While waiting for your appointment, apply a cold compress, take over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended, and avoid eating or drinking in the affected area.
4. Do you offer financing for emergency dental care?
Yes, we offer flexible payment options, including 0% financing to help manage the cost of your emergency dental care.
5. What happens during an emergency dental appointment?
During your appointment, Dr. Jenkins will assess your condition, provide pain relief, and recommend the best treatment plan to address the issue. If necessary, she may schedule follow-up visits for more extensive treatment.
If you’re facing a dental emergency, don’t wait—contact Mission Dental at (615) 366-4141 today to schedule your appointment. Dr. Jenkins and our team are ready to provide the care you need in your time of need. Your smile and oral health are our top priority!
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