Accidents happen, and knowing how to handle a dental emergency can make the difference between saving or losing a tooth. At Family 1st Dental – Laurel, your trusted dentist in Laurel, we’re here to help you navigate these situations with expert care and guidance.

Dental emergencies involve injuries to your teeth or gums that require prompt attention to prevent lasting damage. Always contact our office immediately after an injury occurs. Below, we’ve outlined common dental emergencies and steps you can take before receiving professional care.

Knocked-Out Tooth

• Handle carefully: Rinse the tooth gently with water, avoiding removal of any attached tissue.
• Keep it moist: If possible, place the tooth back into its socket without forcing it. Otherwise, store it in a container of milk or water with a pinch of salt.
• Act quickly: Contact our office immediately for the best chance of saving the tooth.

Chipped or Cracked Tooth

• Save the pieces: Collect any fragments of the tooth if available.
• Rinse thoroughly: Clean the injured area with warm water to remove debris.
• Reduce swelling: Apply a cold compress to ease pain and minimize inflammation.
• Call for help: Schedule an emergency visit to address the damage and prevent further complications.

Objects Stuck Between Teeth

• Use floss: Carefully attempt to remove the object with dental floss.
• Avoid sharp tools: Never use pins, needles, or other sharp objects as they can damage your gums or teeth.
• Seek professional help: If flossing doesn’t work, contact our office for assistance.

Soft-Tissue Injuries

• Control bleeding: Rinse with mild salt water and apply gauze or a tea bag to the site for about 15 minutes.
• Reduce discomfort: Use a cold compress on the area to alleviate pain and swelling.
• Contact your dentist: If bleeding persists, call us for immediate care.

Tips to Avoid Dental Emergencies

• Always wear a mouthguard during sports activities.
• Avoid chewing on hard items like ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candy.
• Never use your teeth as tools—grab scissors instead.

Contact Us for Dental Emergencies

If you experience a dental emergency, reach out to Family 1st Dental – Laurel as soon as possible. We’ll guide you with step-by-step instructions and determine if immediate care is necessary. Staying prepared and acting quickly can protect your smile and prevent long-term issues. Call us with any questions or to schedule an appointment today!