Emergency dentistry diagnoses and treats potentially serious oral health problems that require immediate attention.

Minor toothaches and small cuts typically respond to at-home care like over-the-counter pain medication or a saltwater rinse. But if you lose a tooth or damage a restoration, it’s critical to act quickly.

Making it to Fullerton Dental Associates within 30 minutes of a dental emergency could mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth or needing to undergo oral surgery.

If you get hit in the mouth and lose a tooth, it’s important to take immediate action. Fullerton Dental Associates recommends you pick up the tooth by the crown, rinse it off in cool tap water, and place it back in the socket.

If the tooth wobbles around or fails to stay in place, put it in a glass of milk or tuck it inside your cheek. After securing the tooth, call the office right away.

If you develop a severe toothache and it doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medication or an ice pack, call Fullerton Dental Associates. Explain your symptoms and their severity. The administrative staff will get you in for an appointment and provide tips to limit pain and inflammation in the meantime.

Dental emergencies occur for various reasons, so there’s no way to prevent them entirely. There are steps you can take to lower your risk, though. Fullerton Dental Associates recommends practicing good oral hygiene and visiting the office twice a year for an oral exam and professional cleaning.

If you play sports or lead a physically active lifestyle, consider wearing a mouthguard, as it can significantly lower your risk of chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth. In addition, try to avoid bad habits like biting your nails, opening packaging with your teeth, or chewing on hard objects like popcorn kernels.

If you or a loved one needs emergency dentistry, contact Fullerton Dental Associates. Book online to make an appointment, call the office, or walk-in during normal business hours today.