Imagine this: it’s Sunday afternoon, and something unexpected happens to one of your teeth. (Maybe an expression of your frustration at Geets’ recent closing.) You find yourself Googling “weekend hours dentist,” hoping you’ll locate someone for the urgent care you need. We’ve got good news! Dr. Kassem provides emergency dentistry for patients in need of fast attention. But what to do in the meantime? There are some steps you should take following any urgent dental situation. The first is calling iSmile Dental Arts.
#1: Call Our Emergency Phone Line
Dental emergencies require immediate attention. Did you know that a knocked out tooth has the greatest chance of being reattached within the first two hours of its loss? Chances of success are almost eliminated after you’ve passed the two hour mark. That’s why iSmile Dental Arts has set up a dedicated emergency phone line for when our patients need us most. We are open more than most dental practices, though, so chances are good your emergency may occur when we’re already at the office. But even if your urgent situation occurs outside of office hours, please contact us immediately.
Not a current patient of iSmile Dental Arts? You can feel free to visit our office during office hours — walk-ins are always welcome. We don’t want to leave anyone waiting in pain.
#2: Find The Missing Tooth
A knocked out tooth is one of the most common dental emergencies. If it happens to you or a loved one, take the next steps to increase the chances that the tooth can be successfully reattached. Remember to seek care within two hours for best results.
First, find the tooth and rinse away any debris under cool water. Do not scrub the tooth or hold it by its root, which could damage its cells and make reattachment impossible. Store the missing tooth in its newly empty socket or the cheek. If neither are possible, placing the tooth in a cup of milk or water will suffice until you reach your dentist’s office.
#3: Ease the Pain
You’ll probably experience pain related to your dental emergency — or dental pain could be your emergency. In either scenario, you can manage the discomfort with an over-the-counter medication like Aleve or Tylenol, which won’t thin the blood. Take pain medication as directed, with water. Your dentist may prescribe something stronger as needed.
#4: Stop the Bleeding
If you are bleeding from the lips, cheeks, tongue, or gums, try to stop the blood flow by applying gentle but consistent pressure with a clean gauze or cloth. Monitor the blood flow and take note of how long it lasts. Severe bleeding that occurs for longer than ten minutes requires emergency medical attention — so head straight to the emergency room if it happens to you.
#5: Relax (No, Really)
Dental emergencies are stressful. They require fast action and a clear head — so for the best results, try not to panic. It’s easier to remain calm through your next dental emergency when you know who to call. Dr. Kassem is your Saturday dentist, for when you just can’t put off your dental care.
