-Barnett-Davis Dental Group is sharing the basics about how to handle dental emergencies because knowing what to do when one happens can be the difference between a saving a knocked-out tooth and losing it.
“If you do have a dental emergency, call our office and we will see you as soon as possible. Even on the weekends and after hours, we always have a doctor on call to help you in a dental emergency situation,” said Dr. Kelly Barnett, a Springfield Missouri dental expert.
Here is what to do if one of these common dental emergencies happens:
• Knocked out tooth. Find the tooth, gently rinse it with water and try to place it back in the socket. If that does not work, put the tooth in milk, water or contact lens saline solution and call the office immediately.
“React quickly to preserve the tooth’s roots and blood vessels because they are essential for re-implanting the tooth,” said Dr. Tracy Davis, a provider of teeth whitening in Springfield Missouri.
• Cap, crown or filling fell out. Damage, decay or an aging restoration can cause fillings and dental crowns to fall out. Even if the tooth does not hurt, it is important to get prompt dental attention to prevent bacteria from infecting the tooth.
“Remember that most dental problems don’t hurt until it has evolved into a major issue,” cautioned Dr. Nick Matthews, a Springfield MO family dentist.
• Broken tooth. Rinse with warm water, and call the dental office immediately. Putting off treatment can lead to an infection or bigger problem.
• Bit tongue, lip or cheek. Clean with a soft cloth and warm water. Use pressure to stop the bleeding and cold compresses to reduce swelling. Severe cuts, punctures and cuts that cross the border between the lip and facial skin may need medical attention at an urgent care clinic or emergency room.
“We always have a dentist on call for emergencies that happen after regular hours or on the weekend. Just call the office to get the after-hours emergency number for the dentist on staff,” said Dr. Marc Barnett who is a Springfield MO periodontist.
Learn More
To visit a Springfield MO cosmetic dentist, call (417) 581-3600 or contact them via their website: Barnettdavisdental.com.
About Drs. Barnett, Dr. Davis and Dr. Matthews
Located in the Springfield, MO area, Drs. Marc and Kelly Barnett, Dr. Tracy Davis and Dr. Nick Matthews practice a full range of cosmetic and general dentistry.
