Schedule an Emergency Dental Exam Today: (570) 323-6116
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 9-1-1.
If you have a dental emergency contact our office at (570) 323-6116 as soon as possible. If it is after our normal office hours, call this number and you will be directed by our after hours answer service to a doctor on call.
Dental emergencies can happen at the most inconvenient time, even to those who are diligent about routine preventive care. Loyalsock Dental offers treatments for both new and current patients who may be experiencing a dental emergency. We try to see you the same day if necessary to address your problem.
While we always recommend that you contact our Williamsport dental office immediately in the case of a concern, there are steps that can be taken at home to minimize discomfort and the risk of further damage.
Tips for Common Dental Emergencies
- Chipped or broken tooth: Gently rinse your mouth with warm water. Do not attempt to reattach the chipped part of your tooth. If you can, place the part that broke off into a cup of your own saliva or milk to preserve the piece until you visit us. Contact our office for instructions on how to proceed.
- Knocked-out tooth: If possible, locate the lost tooth and place it in warm milk or hold between the cheek and gum line while contacting our office. Again, do not attempt to reattach any part of your tooth on your own. We will most likely need to see you as soon as possible.
- Tooth pain: Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the surfaces of any food particles or debris. An over-the-counter pain reliever or cold compress on the outside of your mouth can be used to reduce discomfort. Avoid using the area that is causing pain to prevent further damage. Tooth pain can have a range of causes and should be evaluated by Dr. Kim, especially if sudden, throbbing, or related to mouth trauma.
- Bleeding Gums: If you are experiencing bleeding gums every time you brush your teeth, you might have gingivitis or some form of gum disease. First, try at-home remedies to see if it is a superficial issue. Switch to a soft toothbrush and brush gently next time. You can also rinse with a baking soda and salt solution. If your gums still bleed, visit our dentist in Williamsport, PA. We can quickly evaluate gum disease and create a customized treatment plan to address the root cause.
Avoiding Common Dental Problems
There are many ways to avoid a sudden dental emergency, from regular dental visits to protecting your smile during contact sports or high-risk activities. Dr. Kim can offer tips based on your lifestyle, risk factors, and dental health condition when you visit. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Never use your teeth to open bottles, grip items, or any other activity that places force on the tooth.
- Wear a custom sports mouthguard for the most secure and comfortable fit.
- Brush and floss daily to minimize the risk of decay and gum disease, which can weaken the teeth.
Emergency Dentistry FAQs
Can I take care of a dental emergency at home?
No, never try to take care of a dental problem on your own at home. Depending on what the problem is and the way you try to solve it, you may end up causing more severe issues. This can lead to more pain or more invasive treatment options that are needed to correct the issue.
Can I prepare for a dental emergency?
There are small things you can keep on hand that may help in the event of a dental emergency. Gauze, over-the-counter painkillers, and a saline solution can all be helpful for a dental emergency. Something like Orajel can also be useful for handling pain.
How do I know if I have a dental emergency?
A dental problem is considered an emergency if you need immediate care to save your tooth or take care of pain. Severe pain is a sign of a bigger problem and needs to be taken care of immediately. Having a broken or knocked-out tooth can be time-sensitive. The sooner you’re seen, the better the chance of saving the tooth.
Should I visit the ER for a dental emergency?
You should visit the hospital if you have a severe dental emergency and cannot contact a dentist. It’s also a good idea to visit the ER if you have physical injuries in addition to your dental trauma. A dentist can provide dental treatment after you are physically healthy.
Is it an emergency if I have an object stuck between my teeth?
It is a dental emergency if an object is stuck between your teeth, causing severe pain or bleeding. However, you can try to remove an object if it’s more of an annoyance than an emergency. Use floss, a water irrigator, or a toothpick to remove the object. Contact our office if you cannot remove it and experience continual pain and discomfort.
How can I get an object out from under my gums?
Sometimes, a piece of food or an object can get stuck in your gums, leading to inflamed gum tissue and discomfort. If you have a piece of food or object stuck in your gums, gently floss in the area. You can also create a lukewarm saltwater rinse or gently brush in circular motions to try and release the object.
If that doesn’t work, call our office for an appointment. We can examine your gums and use precise dental tools to remove the object.