The Emergency Dentistry Treatment Process

The first step in the treatment process is an assessment of the patient's oral health condition. Dr. Wilson will quickly evaluate the severity of the dental issue, identify the cause of pain or discomfort, and determine the most effective treatment plan.‍

Once the issue has been identified, Dr. Wilson will proceed with the necessary treatment to alleviate the patient's pain and address the immediate problem. This could involve procedures such as tooth extractions, placement of dental crowns, or even the beginning stages of dental implant placement, depending on the nature and severity of the dental emergency.

After the immediate issue has been addressed, Dr. Wilson will provide follow-up care instructions to ensure proper healing and prevent further complications. This might include prescribing medication, recommending rest, or scheduling additional appointments for more comprehensive treatment if required.‍

What Qualifies As A Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate attention to alleviate severe pain, stop ongoing tissue bleeding, or save a tooth. This can include incidents like a knocked-out tooth, severe toothache, broken or cracked tooth, lost dental filling, abscess, or any injury to your mouth that causes bleeding and severe pain. If you're unsure whether your situation is an emergency, don't hesitate to call us at (615) 662-2787. We're here to help.

It's important to note that some dental issues may seem minor but can quickly escalate if left untreated. For example, a small chip in a tooth might not cause immediate pain, but it can lead to sensitivity or infection if not addressed promptly. Additionally, any signs of swelling in the face or jaw, accompanied by fever, could indicate a serious infection requiring urgent care.

What Should I Do If I Knock Out A Tooth?

If you've knocked out a tooth, it's essential to act quickly. First, retrieve the tooth if possible, handling it by the crown, not the root. Rinse it gently without scrubbing and try to place it back in the socket. If you can't, keep it moist by placing it in a jar of milk or saliva. Then, call us immediately. With quick action, there's a good chance the tooth can be saved.

Time is critical in this situation - the sooner you can get professional help, the better the chances of saving the tooth. If you can't reach us immediately, consider visiting the nearest emergency room. They may be able to provide temporary care until you can see a dentist. Remember, even if the tooth can't be saved, it's crucial to have the empty socket examined to prevent infection and discuss replacement options.

How Can I Alleviate Toothache Before My Emergency Appointment?

Rinsing your mouth with warm water and gently flossing to remove any trapped food particles can sometimes alleviate a toothache. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also provide temporary relief. However, it's important not to delay seeking professional help. A severe toothache can be a sign of a serious issue that needs immediate attention.

You can also try applying a cold compress to your cheek near the affected area to reduce swelling and numb the pain. A saltwater rinse (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) can also help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. However, these are temporary measures only. Persistent or severe pain always warrants a professional examination to identify and address the underlying cause.

Do You Offer Same-Day Appointments For Dental Emergencies?

At Warner Parks Family Dental, we understand the urgency of dental emergencies and strive to accommodate same-day appointments whenever possible. Our goal is to alleviate your pain and address the issue as quickly as we can. If you're experiencing a dental emergency, please call us immediately at (615) 662-2787.

We have dedicated emergency slots in our daily schedule to ensure we can respond promptly to urgent cases. Even if we're fully booked, we'll do our best to squeeze you in or provide guidance over the phone until we can see you. Our team is trained to triage dental emergencies, ensuring that the most critical cases receive immediate attention.‍

What Should I Include In A Home Dental Emergency Kit?

It's wise to be prepared for dental emergencies, especially if you're traveling or unable to reach a dentist immediately. A well-stocked home dental emergency kit should include:

1. Sterile gauze pads to control bleeding
2. A small container with a lid to store a knocked-out tooth
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen
4. Dental floss to remove trapped food particles
5. A cold pack for reducing swelling
6. Temporary filling material available at most pharmacies
7. Our emergency contact number: (615) 662-2787

Having these items on hand can help you manage dental emergencies more effectively until you can receive professional care. Remember, while these tools can provide temporary relief, they are not substitutes for professional dental treatment.

Remember, when a dental emergency occurs, prompt action is your best defense. Dr. Robert Wilson and the caring team at Warner Parks Family Dental are ready to provide the high-quality, urgent care you need. Don't hesitate to reach out to us in your time of need.