Please call Dental Health Group at (215) 774-6702 in a dental emergency.
At Dental Health Group, our dental care team is here to help patients who need immediate dental treatment for a sudden or severe dental issue. Receiving emergency dental care as soon as possible can preserve the smile and prevent future dental complications. We are your local emergency dentist office in Colmar, PA, providing prompt and efficient care for your dental emergencies.
Emergency Dentist Services in Colmar, PA
Our emergency dental treatments can offer solutions for these common dental problems:
Toothaches
Begin by cleaning around the sore tooth meticulously. Using warm salt water, rinse the mouth to displace any food trapped between teeth. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES should you use aspirin on the aching tooth or the gums. If you experience facial swelling, apply a cold compress to the area. For temporary pain relief, we recommend acetaminophen. See a dentist as soon as possible.
Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lip, or Cheek
Ice can be applied to any bruised areas. If you experience bleeding, apply gentle pressure with sterile gauze or a clean cloth. Additionally, if the bleeding does not stop with pressure or continues after 15 minutes, go to an emergency room.
Broken Braces and Wires
Remove a broken appliance only if it comes out easily. Cover any protruding edges with wax, cotton balls, gauze, or chewing gum if the device is lodged or painful to remove. DO NOT REMOVE any wire caught in the gums, cheek, or tongue; see a dentist immediately. Emergency attention is usually not required for loose or broken appliances that cause no discomfort.
Broken Tooth
If you have just broken a permanent tooth, rinse the area with warm water. Put a cold compress over the facial area of the injury. Recover any broken tooth fragments and get immediate dental attention.
Knocked Out Permanent Tooth
Recover the tooth, holding it by the crown (top) and not the root end. Rinse, but do not clean or handle the tooth more than necessary. Reinsert the tooth in the socket and hold it in place using a clean gauze or cloth. If the tooth cannot be reinserted, carry it in a cup containing milk or water. Because time is essential, see a dentist immediately.
Additional Emergencies
Other possible emergencies may require at-home or medical care:
- Possible Broken Jaw: In the event of jaw injury, close the mouth with a clean towel, tie, or handkerchief. Immediately to an emergency room.
- Bleeding After a Baby Tooth Falls Out: Fold a piece of gauze and place it (tightly) over the bleeding area. Bite down on the gauze for 15 minutes; if bleeding continues, see a dentist.
- Cold or Canker Sores: Over-the-counter medications will usually provide temporary relief. If sores persist, visit your dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about dental emergencies, we have answers. Read below to find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions concerning emergency dentistry.
Are dental abscesses considered emergencies?
Yes, dental abscesses are emergencies. They’re infections that can spread quickly to other parts of the body if not treated. You should always take symptoms like severe pain, swelling, fever, or pus seriously. Call your dentist right away for care, even after hours if needed.
Can a broken retainer or clear aligner be considered a dental emergency?
It depends on the situation. If the break causes pain, cuts your mouth, or affects your treatment progress, it’s urgent and should be fixed soon. A minor crack might not require immediate attention but don’t keep wearing a broken appliance. Call your dentist or orthodontist to decide the next step.
What should I do if my crown or filling falls out unexpectedly?
If a crown or filling falls out, try to keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side. Save the crown or filling if you can and bring it to your appointment. Call your dentist as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can lead to pain or further damage. Temporary dental cement from a pharmacy may help until you’re seen.
Does insurance cover emergency dental services?
Many dental insurance plans cover emergency care, but how much they pay depends on your policy. Some services may be partially covered, while others might require out-of-pocket payment. It’s best to check your coverage or call your provider. Most dental offices can help verify benefits during emergencies.
What should I avoid eating or drinking after a dental emergency?
Avoid hot, cold, spicy, or hard foods until your mouth heals or your dentist gives the okay. Stick to soft foods and room-temperature drinks. Also, skip alcohol or sugary beverages, which can irritate exposed areas. Keeping the area clean and avoiding pressure helps healing.
Is facial or jaw swelling always a sign of a dental emergency?
Facial or jaw swelling often means infection, which can become serious if untreated. It’s especially urgent if you also have pain, fever, or trouble swallowing. Even if it seems mild, it’s best to call your dentist right away. Swelling near the jaw or cheek should never be ignored.
What’s the best way to transport a knocked-out tooth to the dentist?
If a tooth gets knocked out, gently rinse it without scrubbing and try to place it back in the socket if possible. If that’s not an option, place it in a container of milk or saliva to keep it moist. Don’t use water. It can damage the root. Get to the dentist within 30 to 60 minutes for the best chance of saving it.
Call Our Dental Practice Today
Do you have a dental emergency? Contact Dental Health Group at (215) 774-6702. If you require dental care but do not have a dental emergency, you can request a dental appointment with us online.