Oral health issues should never be taken lightly. Whether you're suffering from an injury or a worsening condition, scheduling a visit with your dentist can stop damage before it becomes more problematic. Your mouth is a sensitive area, but they will know the best course of action to take to remedy your condition. The following guide outlines several common dental emergencies and how you should deal with them if they arise. 

What to Do In a Dental Emergency

1. Broken Teeth

If your tooth is chipped or broken, look for the lost fragment. Larger pieces can potentially be reattached if you get prompt care from a dentist specializing in tooth restoration. Make sure you clean the injured area with warm water to stave off infection, and apply a cold washcloth to your mouth to reduce swelling. After taking all necessary precautions, call your dentist to set up an appointment as soon as possible.

2. Lost Teeth

Losing baby teeth is perfectly normal, but losing adult teeth is an emergency situation. If you lose a tooth, try to find it as soon as you realize it's missing. Place it back in its socket and hold it in place, or put it in a cup or liquid-sealed bag of fresh milk. You should immediately head to an emergency dentist. The faster you arrive, the more likely they can reattach the tooth.

3. Toothache

If you have a minor toothache, scheduling a trip to the dentist is recommended before it gets worse. However, if you wait too long and the pain becomes substantial, you may require emergency care. Rinse your mouth with warm water to kill infection-causing bacteria, and apply a cold compress to the outside of your jaw to reduce swelling. Schedule an appointment as soon as possible to prevent further damage and get treatment for the pain.

If you experience a dental emergency, turn to the team at Pleasant Valley Cosmetic & Laser Dental in South Ogden, UT. This emergency, cosmetic, and general dentistry office uses the latest technology to treat and care for patients of all ages. They offer free consultations to assess your dental needs and financing options to make their services more accessible for everyone. They will also help with insurance filing and will submit the necessary paperwork within 24 hours of your first visit. Call (801) 621-3383 to schedule an appointment, or browse the website to learn more about their dental emergency treatment options.