Sensitive Teeth

Tooth sensitivity can result from a number of different dental problems. The first line of defense for hot and cold sensitivity is an over-the-counter toothpastes available for sensitive teeth, such as Sensodyne or Crest for Sensitive Teeth. These products may help along with a fluoride rinse such as Act. If sensitivity does not go away within one week, call our office for an appointment. There are prescription strength toothpastes and rinses that can help with sensitivity. Sometimes an exposed root surface can cause sensitivity. In this case, a composite (white filling) can be placed to cover the exposed surface. Usually a combination of the above options can solve tooth sensitivity.

Toothache

Toothaches can occur when a tooth is cracked or chipped, or if there is a large cavity or abscess present. Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss or an inter-dental cleaner to ensure that there is no food or other debris caught between the teeth. NEVER place an aspirin or any other painkiller against the gums near the aching tooth because it may burn the gum tissue. You can also try a topical gel such as Orajel to help alleviate the pain. Contact our office ASAP to set up an appointment, especially if the tooth is painful when chewing, hot and cold sensitive, draining pus, or facial swelling.

Temporary Crown or Bridge Fell Off

Clean off the tooth/teeth and clean out the temporary as best as you can. You can use a little bit of toothpaste or denture adhesive and place a THIN layer inside the teeth of the temporary and place back down over the teeth. You can also purchase temporary cement at any pharmacy that you may apply to recement the temporary. If temporary continues to come loose, contact our office for quick "recement" appointment.

Tooth Knocked Out

Hold the tooth by the crown and rinse off the root of the tooth in water if it’s dirty. Do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue fragments. If possible, gently insert and hold the tooth in its socket and contact us immediately. If that isn’t possible, put the tooth in a cup of milk and get to the dentist as quickly as possible. Remember to take the tooth with you!

Cracked or Broken Tooth

Call our office immediately for an appointment. If tooth is sharp, dental wax is available at pharmacies. You can place a piece of dental wax around the fractured area of tooth to avoid other possible injuries to your mouth.

Swelling of the Mouth or Jaw

Call our office immediately. Place ice compresses on the swollen area and get to a dentist or hospital right away.