Accidents can happen at any time, and knowing how to respond to a dental emergency is crucial, as it can mean the difference between saving a tooth and losing one. At Family 1st Dental in Norfolk, we want you to be prepared.

A dental emergency is any injury to your teeth or gums that requires immediate attention. Ignoring these issues can lead to permanent damage. If you experience a dental emergency, reach out to our office right away. Provide us with detailed information about the injury so we can guide you on how to care for your mouth until you arrive. In some cases, we may recommend emergency care.

Here are some common dental emergencies and how to handle them:

1. Knocked-Out Tooth

If a tooth gets knocked out, rinse it gently with water, avoiding any attached tissue. Keep the tooth moist by placing it back in its socket if possible, but do this gently without forcing it. If re-insertion isn’t feasible, store the tooth in a small container of milk or a cup of water with a pinch of salt. Contact our dental office in Norfolk as quickly as possible.

2. Chipped or Cracked Tooth

If you chip or crack a tooth, try to save any pieces if possible. Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area and remove any small fragments. To reduce swelling and relieve pain, apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth.

3. Objects Caught Between Teeth

If something is stuck between your teeth, use dental floss to try to remove it carefully. Never use sharp objects, like pins or scissors, as these can cause further injury to your gums or teeth. If you can’t remove the object, see your dentist.

4. Soft-Tissue Injuries

Injuries to your tongue, cheeks, gums, or lips may cause bleeding. To control the bleeding, rinse your mouth with mild salt water. Apply a moistened gauze or tea bag to the bleeding site for about 15 minutes. A cold compress can also help alleviate pain. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, contact our Norfolk office immediately.

Prevention Tips

To reduce the risk of dental emergencies, consider these precautions:

• Always wear a mouth guard while playing sports.
• Avoid chewing on hard items like ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candy.
• Never use your teeth to cut or open items; use scissors instead.

In the event of a dental emergency, contact Family 1st Dental – Norfolk – 13th Street as soon as possible. We can provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to care for your mouth and advise you on whether you need to come in for treatment. If you have any questions about dental emergencies, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us!