Emergency Dental Care When You Need It
If you are in pain or have a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to call us right away. We will do everything we can to get you in to see Dr. Samuelson as soon as possible.
We understand that dental emergencies can be very stressful, which is why we offer a wide range of emergency dental services. We can help with anything from a simple toothache to a more complex dental procedure.
Our team can help you get the relief you need as quickly as possible, so don’t delay in giving us a call if you are experiencing a dental emergency.
What To Do In A Dental Emergency
Dental emergencies can be sudden, painful, and sometimes terrifying. Whether it’s due to an accident, an injury, or an underlying dental issue, knowing what to do when faced with a dental emergency can make the difference between saving or losing a tooth. Speed and proper care are of the essence. Here are some steps you can follow:
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
Panicking will not help in an emergency. If you or someone you know has a dental emergency, the first step is to take a deep breath and assess the situation. Is there heavy bleeding? Is a tooth knocked out or just chipped? Recognizing the severity of the situation will guide your next steps and help you explain the situation to a dental professional.
Seek Immediate Dental Attention
Once you’ve assessed the situation, it’s crucial to contact a dentist immediately. Dental emergencies often require the expertise of a professional to ensure the best possible outcome. Dr. Bart Samuelson at Black Hills Area Dental is trained to handle such situations and can provide guidance on what to do next.
Follow Temporary Measures if Needed
While waiting for your emergency dental appointment, there are several temporary measures you can adopt based on the emergency. For instance, if a tooth is knocked out, try placing it back in the socket or in a glass of milk. If there’s a severe toothache, rinse the mouth with warm salt water and avoid hot or cold beverages.
Emergency Appointments We Offer
Dental emergencies don’t always happen during regular office hours. They can occur at any time and require immediate attention to minimize pain, discomfort, and long-term damage.
Same-Day Appointments
One of the benefits of turning to a reliable dentist like Dr. Bart Samuelson is the potential for same-day appointments. This means that even if a dental emergency happens unexpectedly, you won’t have to wait days or weeks for a resolution. Immediate attention can prevent complications, reduce pain, and increase the chances of a positive outcome.
After Hours Appointments
Recognizing the unpredictable nature of dental emergencies, some dental practices offer after-hour appointments. This ensures that even if something happens late at night or over the weekend, patients can still receive the necessary care without waiting. This type of availability is particularly crucial for severe dental emergencies where time plays a critical role in the treatment outcome.
What's classed as a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate dental attention due to severe pain, trauma, or risk of infection. This includes knocked-out teeth, severe toothaches, swelling, heavy bleeding, or injuries to the mouth or jaw.
What should I do if I’ve knocked out a tooth?
Firstly, pick up the tooth by the crown (top part) and avoid touching the root. Rinse it gently without scrubbing. If possible, try to reinsert it in its socket. If that’s not feasible, place the tooth in a glass of milk or a tooth preservation kit. Then, seek emergency dental care immediately.
What should I do about a severe toothache?
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Floss gently to ensure no debris is trapped between teeth. Refrain from placing aspirin or any other medication directly on the affected area. Seek dental attention as soon as possible.
What should I do about a chipped, broken, or cracked tooth?
Rinse the mouth with warm water. If there’s swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek. Avoid eating on the affected side and see a dentist promptly.
Is tooth infection an emergency?
Yes, a tooth infection can spread, leading to more severe health complications, including swelling, pain, and even sepsis. If you suspect a tooth infection, it’s crucial to seek dental care immediately.