What to Do Before Visiting an Emergency Dentist in Shallotte, NC: A Step-by-Step Guide

Summary:

Dental emergencies can occur at any time and anywhere. 

It happens when we least expect it: a broken crown, toothache, or even an injury in your mouth;  all count as a dental emergency. Quick actions should be taken in such situations to alleviate the pain, prevent more severe issues, and sometimes even save your tooth.

Studies show that nearly 2 million people visit emergency rooms for dental problems each year in the U.S., demonstrating the common and urgent nature of these situations. In fact, taking all the necessary preparations before visiting your dentist can make a big difference.

In this guide, we will walk you through:

• Step 1: Assess the Situation
• Step 2: Manage Pain and Discomfort
• Step 3: Protect and Preserve the Tooth or Affected Area

So continue reading as we learn more about the steps involved in an emergency dental visit. Let’s get started. 

Step 1: Assess the Situation

When a dental emergency occurs, the first step should be to remain calm and composed, and then assess whether it is indeed a dental emergency. Getting panicked will only make things harder and not simpler. Here is how you can assess the situation: 

• Knocked-out tooth – This is always considered an emergency. The sooner you get to a dentist, the greater the chance of saving your tooth.
• Severe toothache – If the pain is unbearable and does not subside with over-the-counter pain relievers, it may signal an infection that requires urgent care.
• Broken crown or filling – This can often wait for some time and is not considered an emergency, but if it’s causing pain or the sharp edges of the crown are hurting your mouth, call your dentist right away.
• Uncontrolled bleeding or swelling – These are red flags. They can be signs of a bad infection or serious injury and require immediate treatment.

If you cannot figure it out, calling a dentist in Shallotte, NC, for the right advice is the better option. Quick actions are often considered wise decisions, but not every situation requires an immediate visit to the dentist.

 Step 2: Manage Pain and Discomfort

Having to deal with bad dental pain can be overwhelming and disconcerting, but following some simple steps can enable you to make things easier for yourself before you visit your dentist.

• Try a Cold Compress

Cold compressing always works. Take a cold pack or a clean, plain cloth, wrap it with ice, and hold it close to your cheek. This works wonders to reduce swelling and alleviate sharp pain. 

• Use over-the-counter Pain Relief

To ease the sharp pain and get a quick relief, use medicines such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. However, always follow the instructions given on the label for the right directions.

• Rinse with Warm Saltwater

Rinsing always helps. Mix a spoonful of salt in lukewarm water. Gently swish it around your mouth, as this will help soothe the irritation caused and clean the area. 

• What not to do
• Don’t put aspirin directly on your gums; it can cause tissue irritation and burns.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that may worsen pain.

These steps are not your ultimate care; they are a temporary way to ease the discomfort until you visit your dentist for professional care.

Step 3: Protect and Preserve the Tooth or Affected Area

The way you handle the affected area and the affected tooth after a dental emergency can make all the difference. Given below are some of the simple steps you can follow before reaching out for an emergency care dentist in Shallotte, NC:

• Knocked-out tooth: If a tooth is knocked out, hold it by the crown, not the root. Try to keep it moist by putting it inside a saline solution; milk also works. If this is not available at present, tuck the piece inside your cheek until you see the dentist.
• Broken tooth: Use warm water to rinse your mouth gently. Try to save any broken pieces and bring them with you when you visit your dentist.
• Lost filling or dislodged crown: Avoid chewing on the affected side. You can cover the exposed area with dental wax or sugar-free gum, which will prevent it from sensitivity.
• Prevent further damage: Avoid hard foods and refrain from chewing or biting on the affected side until there is noticeable improvement. 

Taking the aforementioned steps can help protect your tooth and make the treatment procedure easier for both you and the dentist.

Step 5: Prepare for Your Visit

Bring the Right Documents

To make your visit to the dentist smooth and hassle-free, do not forget to grab some of the important things:

• A valid photo ID
• Your insurance details
• A list of any medications you’re currently taking
• Past dental or medical records, if you have them

Having these documents and other necessary information ready can help the dentist better understand your health condition.

Plan Ahead Practically 

One of the smart decisions to make would be to arrange your transportation beforehand if you are feeling too much pain or anxiety. Consider taking a friend along with you during the visit to the family dentistry in Shallotte, NC. It will make the whole process less stressful.

What to Expect on Arrival

Once you arrive at the clinic, the first step is typically to undergo an initial check-up. The dentist may even take X-rays to get a clearer view of the actual matter inside your mouth. In most cases, you receive immediate care; if that is not possible, they provide a detailed plan outlining the next steps so that you do not leave without answers.

Additional Tips to Stay Prepared for Dental Emergencies

It is crucial for you to take preventive measures on your own to avoid any unexpected dental problems. Mentioned below are some of the steps that can help you stay ready and stress-free in any situation:

Keep a Dental First-Aid Kit

It is important for everyone to have a small first-aid kit at home for immediate and emergency needs. Basic items such as a lid, pain relievers, and orthodontic wax should be present. This will help you manage your pain, for instance, before you visit your dentist.

Do not Skip Regular Check-Ups

Routine dental check-ups are crucial. These regular visits help detect any unwanted situations and prevent emergencies. 

Takeaway

• Stay calm and assess – Not every dental issue is an emergency, but quick action can save your tooth.
• Ease pain safely – Use cold compresses, OTC pain relievers, and saltwater rinses until you reach the dentist.
• Protect the tooth – Handle knocked-out or broken teeth carefully and bring the necessary documents for a smooth visit.
• Dental emergencies can be complicated, but not with experienced professionals. Take the right step and connect with our experts at Carolina Coast Family Dentistry today!