Dr. Sheehan and an assistant working on a patient's teeth as he lays back in the treatment chair

Emergency Dentistry in Waterford, MI

Swift Relief for Dental Emergencies

Have you ever found yourself in a dental emergency, grappling with sudden tooth pain or an unexpected dental issue? At Oakland Family Dental, our Waterford, MI dentist, Dr. Amanda Sheehan understands that such situations can be distressing. That’s why we’re here to offer reliable and compassionate emergency dentistry services. When dental emergencies strike, trust Oakland Family Dental to be your partner in restoring comfort and ensuring the well-being of your smile.

If you’re ever experiencing a dental emergency, call Oakland Family Dental at (248) 674-0384.

What is Emergency Dentistry?

Emergency dentistry stands as an immediate and specialized branch of dental care aimed at addressing unforeseen and pressing oral issues. It encompasses prompt diagnosis, treatment, and management of acute dental problems that arise suddenly, causing severe discomfort, pain, or trauma. The objective of emergency dentistry revolves around swift relief from urgent dental conditions.

Common Dental Emergencies

man with a toothacheEmergencies in dentistry span various scenarios that demand urgent attention:

  • Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Occurring due to accidents, injuries, or unforeseen circumstances, these situations necessitate urgent dental care to prevent infection and safeguard dental integrity.
  • Lost or Damaged Restorations: Instances involving broken dental fillings, crowns, or bridges require immediate care to avert discomfort and maintain oral health.
  • Inflamed or Infected Gums: Swelling, pain, or the presence of abscesses on the gums signify potential infection, warranting immediate professional treatment to prevent further complications.
  • Knocked-Out Teeth: Timely action and expert dental care play a critical role in salvaging a dislodged tooth. Ensuring the tooth remains moist and seeking immediate dental assistance heightens the possibility of successful reattachment.
  • Moderate to Severe Toothaches: Persistent, intense tooth pain often indicates an underlying issue that requires urgent evaluation and prompt treatment to alleviate discomfort.

Same-Day Dental Emergency Appointments

During dental emergencies, the element of time holds paramount importance. Your Watford dentist prioritizes same-day appointments tailored to cater specifically to individuals in immediate need. These expedited appointments ensure rapid assessment, timely intervention, and relief, thereby averting further complications or prolonged discomfort.

Tips for Handling Dental Emergencies

Contact Dr. Sheehan Immediately

Call your Waterford dentist as soon as the dental emergency occurs. Dr. Sheehan can provide guidance, schedule immediate appointments, and offer crucial advice.

Preserving Dislodged Teeth

If a tooth gets knocked out, handle it carefully by the crown (top part). Keep it moist by placing it in milk or saliva to increase the chance of successful reattachment.

Managing Toothaches

For severe toothaches, avoid using aspirin directly on the gums as it may damage tissues. Instead, rinse with warm water and use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.

Handling Broken or Chipped Teeth

Refrain from trying to repair a broken tooth by yourself. Instead, rinse your mouth with warm water and place a cold compress on the affected area to reduce swelling.

Addressing Soft Tissue Injuries

If there’s bleeding from the lips, cheeks, tongue, or gums, apply pressure using gauze or a clean cloth to control the bleeding. Seek immediate dental care if bleeding persists.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Maintain a small dental emergency kit with essentials such as gauze, a small container with a lid, pain relievers, and the contact information of your dentist.

Avoid Self-Treatment

While awaiting professional care for a dental emergency, avoid trying to fix the issue yourself. Improper handling may exacerbate the problem and complicate treatment.

Seek Professional Dental Help

Dental emergencies require the expertise of a professional. Schedule an emergency dental visit with our Waterford emergency dentist to prevent further complications and ensure proper treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered a dental emergency?

Any dental problem that requires immediate attention is considered a dental emergency, like a chipped, cracked, or broken tooth. Other signs that you may require emergency care include nerve damage, severe pain, puncture wounds, and more. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, it’s important to contact us immediately at (248) 674-0384 so we can address the problem as soon as possible. If it can wait, follow our dental emergency guide above.

Is a cavity a dental emergency?

Typically, a minor cavity is not considered a dental emergency unless you’re experiencing a severe toothache or sudden sensitivity. This can be a sign of something more serious than a cavity, and may need additional treatment. If that’s the case, Dr. Sheehan strongly suggests scheduling an appointment at your earliest convenience.

What helps relieve tooth pain?

If you’re experiencing a toothache, we recommend taking an over-the-counter pain reliever to help alleviate any pain or discomfort. Some common medications include ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin. If the pain continues, give us a call to schedule an appointment so we can determine the cause of your toothache.

What if I’m not sure if it’s an emergency?

If you or a loved one feels uncertain, it’s best to contact our Waterford office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sheehan as soon as possible. We’ll examine your oral health, assess the damage, and determine the best course of action. In some cases, waiting to seek treatment can result in further damage or infection. That’s why it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Call Oakland Family Dental to Handle Your Dental Emergency 

When dental disasters strike, your smile deserves rapid rescue. At Oakland Family Dental, we’re ready to alleviate pain and provide expert care when you need it most. Don’t let dental emergencies ruin your day— contact our Waterford, MI emergency dental office at (248) 674-0384 for swift, compassionate care. 

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