Emergency Dentist in Dunn, NC
No one plans to have a dental emergency. However, when the unexpected happens, it’s essential to have a trusted emergency dentist that you can rely on. At J. Michael Williams, DDS, our primary goals in treating dental emergencies are alleviating severe pain and preventing potentially life-threatening complications. Prompt dental care is crucial for avoiding more serious health issues and preserving your oral health. Your well-being is our top priority, and we’re here to support you with expert care whenever you need us.
When To Call Your Emergency Dentist
Recognizing the signs of a dental emergency and knowing when to contact our office can make all the difference in preserving your oral health. Here are some situations that require immediate attention:
- Severe tooth pain: If you experience intense, unrelenting tooth pain, it could indicate an infection or other serious issue that needs prompt evaluation and treatment.
- Uncontrolled bleeding: Continuous bleeding, especially after an injury or dental procedure, indicates that you need urgent care to prevent further complications.
- Extreme tooth sensitivity: If your tooth becomes very sensitive to hot or cold temperatures or from chewing pressure, it might be a sign of a more serious problem, like a fracture or a deep cavity.
- Knocked-out tooth: If your tooth has been knocked out, it is important to act quickly. Seeking help immediately can increase the chances of saving the tooth.
- Loose or partially dislodged tooth: A tooth that has become loose or has moved out of its normal position due to trauma needs immediate attention to prevent permanent damage.
- Lost filling or crown: A lost filling or crown can expose the nerves of your tooth, causing pain and increasing the risk of infection.
- Abscess on the gums: An abscess is a serious infection that can spread if not treated quickly, so be alert for signs such as pus or swelling on the gums.
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact our office right away. Timely intervention is key to managing dental emergencies and ensuring the best possible outcome for your oral health.
What an Emergency Dentist Can Do for You
Your Restorative Options
Frequently Asked Questions
Severe dental emergencies that warrant an ER visit include:
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Severe infections with swelling that could affect your ability to breathe
- Trauma involving facial bones
- Serious cuts to the face or mouth
The ER can alleviate pain, prescribe antibiotics for infections, and control bleeding. However, they do not perform dental procedures such as fillings, crowns, or implants. After visiting the ER, you will likely need to follow up with our office for comprehensive dental care that treats the underlying issue.
If your tooth is broken or chipped, rinse your mouth with warm water, apply gauze to stop any bleeding, manage pain with over-the-counter pain relievers, and cover sharp edges with dental wax to avoid injury.
If your tooth is knocked out, rinse your mouth with warm water, try to reinsert the tooth into its socket, and bite on a gauze pad. Alternatively, store the tooth in whole milk or between your cheek and gum to keep it from drying out. Be sure to contact an emergency dentist as soon as possible to improve the chances of saving your tooth.
While ERs can offer initial assistance for dental emergencies, they typically do not provide comprehensive dental treatment. They can help with pain management and prescribe antibiotics for infections. However, they typically don’t perform more complex dental procedures like pulling an infected tooth.
For most dental emergencies, it’s better to contact our office first.