Emergency Dental Care in Lakewood, WA

What is a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation involving your teeth or gums requiring prompt attention to alleviate severe pain, stop ongoing tissue bleeding, or address serious conditions that could worsen if left untreated. Examples include:

• Severe toothaches.
• Knocked-out teeth.
• Broken or cracked teeth.
• Abscesses.
• Significant bleeding or swelling in the mouth.

These situations often require quick intervention to prevent further damage or permanent loss and to ensure the best possible outcome.

What if my tooth gets knocked out?

If your tooth gets knocked out, it’s essential to act quickly and carefully to increase the chances of saving the tooth:

1. Pick up the tooth by the sides, not the root, to avoid damaging the root surface.
2. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently under cold water, but do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue fragments.
3. Try to reinsert the tooth into the socket immediately. Hold the tooth in place by gently biting down on a clean cloth or gauze.
4. If you can’t reinsert the tooth, keep it moist by placing it in a container of milk.
5. See a dentist immediately. The best chance for tooth survival occurs if you see a dentist right away.