Accidents happen when we least expect them, and knowing how to respond in a dental emergency can make all the difference in saving a tooth or preventing further damage. At Central Park Dental, your trusted dentist in Charleston, we’re here to guide you through these stressful situations with expert care and advice.

A dental emergency typically involves an injury to your teeth or gums that requires immediate attention. Ignoring these emergencies can lead to complications or permanent damage. In the event of any dental emergency, contact our office as soon as possible. Provide as much detail as you can about the injury so we can advise you on the best steps to take before you arrive. In some cases, we may recommend emergency care immediately.

Here are some common dental emergencies and what you can do in each situation:

Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth gets knocked out, gently rinse it with water if it’s dirty, but avoid scrubbing or removing any attached tissue fragments. Keep the tooth moist at all times by carefully placing it back into the socket if possible, without forcing it. If reinsertion isn’t possible, place the tooth in a small container of milk or a cup of water with a pinch of salt. Then, contact our dentist in Charleston immediately for further guidance.

Chipped or Cracked Tooth
If your tooth is chipped or cracked, try to save any fragments and rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. To minimize swelling and discomfort, apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth. Be sure to contact us quickly for an assessment.

Object Stuck Between Teeth
If something becomes lodged between your teeth, gently attempt to remove it with dental floss. Never use sharp objects like pins, as these can injure your gums or damage your teeth. If you’re unable to remove the object, schedule an appointment with our office to avoid further complications.

Soft-Tissue Injuries
Injuries to the tongue, cheeks, gums, or lips may result in bleeding. Rinse your mouth with mild salt water, then apply a moistened gauze pad or a tea bag to the bleeding area for about 15 minutes. You can also use a cold compress to alleviate pain. If bleeding doesn’t stop, contact our Charleston dentist office for immediate assistance.

Tips to Prevent Dental Emergencies
While emergencies can happen unexpectedly, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Wear a mouthguard during sports activities
• Avoid chewing on ice, hard candy, and popcorn kernels
• Use scissors, not your teeth, to open packages or cut items

If you experience a dental emergency, always reach out to Central Park Dental as soon as possible. We’ll provide clear instructions on how to care for the injury and may ask you to come into the office for immediate treatment. For any additional questions about dental emergencies or how to handle them, don’t hesitate to contact our team.

At Central Park Dental, we’re here to help you protect your smile, even in emergencies!