Dental Emergency Services in Citrus Heights
Dr. Robert Obregon offers prompt, compassionate care for dental emergencies in Citrus Heights. Most dental emergency symptoms of grow worse and some can lead to complex problems if left untreated. If you are experiencing severe dental discomfort or have suffered an injury call our Citrus Heights emergency dentist right away at (916) 432-5569.
Our dentist has the experience and skill to correct most dental issues that can cause a dental emergency. Deep decay that has infected the pulp can be restored with root canal therapy. Should you lose a tooth, we can attempt to reattach it to the gum, or a traditional or implant-supported restoration can be crafted to repair your smile.
What to Do in Case of a Dental Emergency
If you can make it into our office right away, there are some things you can do to reduce discomfort, preserve your tooth, and minimize your risk of serious complications.
Dislodged or Knocked Out Tooth or Crown: If a tooth is avulsed (knocked out), pick it up by the crown, and avoid touching the root. Gently rinse the tooth and carefully insert it back into the socket. If this isn’t possible, or if the patient is a child, put the tooth in a glass of milk or slightly salted water. This kind of injury requires immediate treatment so be sure to call our office quickly. Use an over-the-counter pain reliever such as Tylenol or Advil and if pain, swelling, or bleeding becomes unmanageable before your appointment, consider visiting the emergency room. Do not apply pain reliever directly to the gums near the damaged tooth because it may burn or cause damage to the tissue.
Crowns can also become loose or dislodged. If this happens, clean the area, coat the inner surface of the crown with over-the-counter dental cement, toothpaste, or denture adhesive, and slip it back over the tooth. Do not use any type of super glue!
Broken Tooth
If a tooth is chipped or cracked, rinse your mouth with salt water and apply gauze if there is any bleeding. Save any pieces of the tooth and rinse them as well. Use a cold compress on the outside of the mouth to relieve pain and reduce any swelling. Please make an appointment to see us as soon as possible.
Toothaches and Abscesses
When experiencing a toothache, pain relief is the goal, until seeing the dentist. Rinsing with warm water, using a topical pain reliever, and applying a cold compress to the cheek can all be done to help reduce any symptoms you may have.
Abscesses are serious and should be treated by a dental or medical professional quickly. Until then, rinse with salt water. Consider the emergency room if you can’t be seen by a dentist right away.
Ways to Prevent and Help with Dental Emergencies
Dr. Robert Obregon recommends including dental emergency items in your first-aid kit. Temporary bonding cement, dental pain relievers, and tooth preserving solutions are available in many drug stores or online. Wearing a mouth guard during physical activities greatly reduces the risk of dental injuries. Also, avoid chewing on non-edible items or using your teeth as a tool to pry anything open.
Your smile deserves the very best care, so if you are experiencing a dental emergency in Citrus Heights or the surrounding area, call us at (916) 432-5569 to schedule an appointment.