The Christmas holiday season can be a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a time when unexpected dental emergencies occur. Whether you’re dealing with a toothache, a lost filling, or a broken tooth, it’s important to know how to handle these situations and where to turn for help. Here at Cheslyn Hay Dental Practice, we are here to help, this is what you can do if you find yourself in need of one during Christmas.
What Is An Emergency Dentist?
An emergency dentist is a dental professional who is available to provide immediate care. The dental emergency could include toothaches, broken teeth, lost fillings, or any other problem that requires immediate attention. Emergency dentists are usually available on a walk-in basis, meaning you can visit them without an appointment. They may also offer after-hours care for patients who need immediate attention outside of regular business hours. If you are in Walsall or Cannock, Cheslyn Hay Dental Practice is here to help. Registered or non-registered patients of the practice our out-of-hours dentist can help.
What Are Some Common Dental Emergencies?
Some of the most common dental emergencies include:
- Toothaches: A toothache can be caused by a variety of issues, including decay, infection, or trauma. If you have a toothache, it’s important to get it checked out by a dentist as soon as possible to determine the cause and provide treatment.
- Lost fillings: If you lose a filling, it’s important to get it replaced as soon as possible. A lost filling can allow bacteria to enter the tooth, leading to further decay and infection
- Broken or chipped teeth: If you have a broken or chipped tooth, it’s important to get it treated as soon as possible. A broken tooth can be painful and may require a root canal or other treatment to repair it.
- Knocked-out tooth: If you have a tooth that has been knocked out, it’s important to try to find the tooth and keep it moist. You can try to put the tooth back in the socket if it’s still in good condition, or you can store it in a cup of milk or saliva until you can see a dentist.
- Abscess: An abscess is a pocket of pus that can form around the tooth as a result of an infection. Abscesses can be extremely painful and can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. If you have an abscess, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible for treatment.
Where Can I Find An Emergency Dentist?
If you’re in need of an emergency dentist, there are a few different options you can consider. One option is to visit a local dental clinic or hospital. Many dental clinics and hospitals have on-call dentists who are available to handle emergencies. You can also check with your regular dentist to see if they offer emergency care. Another option is to contact a dental hotline or helpline. Many areas have hotlines or helplines that connect you with a dental professional. Cheslyn Hay Dental Practice offers emergency dentistry to both registered and non-registered patients.
What Should I Do If I Have A Dental Emergency?
If you have a dental emergency, it’s important to act quickly to minimise any damage and get the treatment you need. Here are some steps you can take if you find yourself in this situation:
- Stay calm: It’s natural to feel anxious or panicked in the face of a dental emergency but try to remain as calm as possible. This will help you think clearly and make good decisions about how to handle the situation.
- Take care of the tooth: If you have a broken tooth, try to find the pieces, and store them in a clean container. If you have a toothache, try to rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it out. Avoid using any over-the-counter pain medication, as this can sometimes make the pain worse.
- Get in touch with an emergency dentist: As mentioned above, there are several options for finding an emergency dentist. Once you’ve located one, make sure to call and explain the situation. They will be able to advise you on what to do next and whether you need to come in for treatment.
- Follow the dentist’s instructions: If the emergency dentist advises you to come in for treatment, make sure to follow their instructions carefully. They will be able to provide the care you need to address the issue and get you on the road to recovery.
It’s important to remember that dental emergencies can happen at any time but knowing what to do is vital. If you’re in need of an emergency dentist, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance.
