Dental Emergency tips | Dental Emergency in Grande Prairie, Alberta

We understand that life happens, and that accidents and dental emergencies can occur at any time. Therefore, we do our best to accommodate any dental emergencies that may come up. The following is a list of steps you can take if you experience a dental emergency to increase your chance of saving the tooth.

Tooth has been knocked out

If one or more of your teeth have been knocked out, you will need immediate treatment. Find the lost tooth and try to handle it as little as possible. Place it in milk to keep it moist and intact. The sooner that a knocked out tooth is reinserted, the better chance there is of saving the tooth. Get yourself to a dentist or emergency room as soon as possible. Since knocked-out teeth are usually caused by a trauma to the face or head, it may be necessary to be examined for signs of concussion.

Chipped or broken teeth

Find and save all broken pieces of the tooth if at all possible. Get to the dentist as soon as possible to prevent infection or further breakage. If the break is small, the dentist may be able to mend the tooth with a filling. Your treatment will depend on the type and severity of the break.

Toothache

An infected tooth can cause a lot of pain and swelling in the affected area. A cold compress can help with inflammation, and Tylenol can used to alleviate some of the pain. Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can also help ease discomfort. A toothache will likely not resolve on its own, and it is important to seek emergency dental care as soon as possible. A root canal or extraction will be the likeliest course of action.

Broken crowns, fillings, bridges and other dental restorations

Save all pieces of the dental restoration if at all possible as the dentist may be able to re- cement them in place. If there is not much pain or discomfort you can likely wait up to 24 hours to come, but do book an appointment as soon as possible.

Being prepared for a dental emergency can help you stay calm and act proactively if any of these events do occur. It’s also a great idea to have a first aid kit handy in your home and vehicle. Again, we will do our best to accommodate any emergencies. Give our office a call at 587-771-7668 if you find yourself having a dental emergency.