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 Emergency Dental Care for Kids

Emergency Dental Care for Kids

Dental emergencies in children, from toddlers to teens, can be frightening for both kids and parents. A knocked-out tooth from a bike crash or a broken brace poking their cheek requires quick, calm action. Kids’ dental emergencies differ from adults’ due to developing teeth, so this post guides parents on what to do, why pediatric dentists are ideal, and how to prevent future issues.
Common emergencies include knocked-out teeth, chipped permanent teeth, or brace-related injuries. If a baby tooth is knocked out, don’t reimplant it—this can harm the permanent tooth developing below. Rinse the mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and see a dentist to check for underlying damage. For a permanent tooth, rinse it gently, try reinserting it, or store it in milk or saliva, and rush to a dentist within 60 minutes for the best reimplantation chance. Chipped teeth with pain or exposed nerves need same-day care; minor chips can wait a day or two. Save fragments in milk for possible bonding.
Child receiving emergency dental care from a pediatric dentist
Braces can cause emergencies, like wires poking gums or broken brackets. Use dental wax to cover sharp parts and call the orthodontist or dentist for repairs. If your child has swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing, seek emergency care immediately—these may indicate an infection needing antibiotics or drainage.
Pediatric dentists are best for kids’ emergencies, as they’re trained to handle young patients’ unique needs and create a comforting environment. Their child-friendly tools and techniques reduce fear, making the experience less scary. If unavailable, a general dentist can help, but mention your child’s age for tailored care.
Stay calm to reassure your child—your calm demeanor helps them feel safe. Explain the situation simply and distract them with a toy or story. Don’t dismiss baby tooth injuries, as untreated damage can affect permanent teeth. Prevent emergencies by ensuring kids wear mouthguards during sports and avoid hard candies or chewing on pencils. Regular pediatric dental visits catch issues early, reducing risks.
Prepare by saving a pediatric dentist’s emergency number and keeping a dental first-aid kit with gauze and wax. Teach kids oral safety to empower them. With the right response, you can protect your child’s smile and keep them calm.

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      Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
      Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
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      Saturday: By Appointment
      Sunday: Closed
      Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
      Saturday: By Appointment
      Sunday: Closed

      Lost Fillings or Crowns: Is It an Emergency?

      Lost Fillings or Crowns: Is It an Emergency?

      Losing a filling or crown can feel worrying. It can make your tooth sensitive or cause damage. It’s not always an emergency, but you should see a dentist soon to stop any problems from getting worse.This post clarifies when a lost restoration is urgent, offers temporary fixes, and explains why you should see a dentist soon to protect your oral health.
      Cracked tooth showing damage after lost filling or crown
      Fillings and crowns help protect teeth that have been damaged by cavities or injury. When they fall out, the exposed tooth is vulnerable to bacteria, temperature sensitivity, or cracking. Severe pain, swelling, or signs of infection (like a bad taste or fever) indicate an emergency—seek same-day care, as these suggest an abscess or nerve exposure. Without pain, the situation is less urgent but shouldn’t be ignored. Schedule a dental visit within 1–2 days to avoid complications like new cavities or a fractured tooth.
      If your filling or crown falls out, rinse your mouth with warm water right away to keep it clean. If you find the crown, put it in a clean box—your dentist might be able to put it back if it’s not broken.To keep the tooth safe for a short time, you can cover it with dental cement, sugar-free gum, or dental wax . You can buy these at a pharmacy. These shield the tooth from hot, cold, or sugary foods that cause discomfort. Avoid chewing on the affected side and eat soft foods like mashed potatoes or smoothies. Don’t use superglue or any other glue to put the crown back on. These can be harmful and might damage your tooth.
      Your dentist will check the tooth for decay or cracks, possibly using X-rays. They’ll replace the filling or recement the crown, or make a new one if the original is damaged. If the tooth has deteriorated, a root canal or extraction may be needed. Delaying care risks infection, as food particles can get trapped in the exposed area, potentially causing an abscess.
      To keep your fillings and crowns from coming loose, don’t eat sticky foods (like caramel) or hard foods (like nuts). They can pull your dental work out. Regular dental checkups ensure your fillings and crowns are secure, and your dentist can replace aging ones before they fail. Keep dental cement in your first-aid kit for quick fixes and save your dentist’s emergency number.
      Sometimes, a tooth’s crown can crack so badly that it can’t be fixed. Reach out to us today if you would like a same day exam if possible about your cracked or chipped tooth.

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          Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
          Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
          Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
          Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
          Saturday: By Appointment
          Sunday: Closed
          Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
          Saturday: By Appointment
          Sunday: Closed

          What Is a Dental Abscess?

          What Is a Dental Abscess?

          A dental abscess is a sore filled with pus that happens when germs infect a tooth or the area around it. It usually forms because of untreated cavities, gum problems, or a tooth injury. Abscesses can be classified as:
          • Periapical Abscess: At the root tip, usually stemming from deep decay or trauma.
          • Periodontal Abscess: In the gums or bone supporting the teeth, linked to advanced gum disease.
          • Gingival Abscess: Confined to the gum tissue, often triggered by injury or foreign debris.
          Left untreated, an abscess can spread infection to nearby structures and even enter the bloodstream.
          Dental abscess showing infected gum and tooth with pus buildup

          Causes of Dental Abscesses

          Dental abscesses develop when bacteria gain access to vulnerable areas of the mouth. Here are the most common causes:
          Untreated Tooth Decay: Deep cavities expose the pulp to bacteria.
          Gum Disease: Periodontal pockets harbor harmful microbes.
          Tooth Trauma: Cracks or chips let bacteria in.
          Failed Dental Restorations: Broken fillings or crowns can leak.
          Poor Oral Hygiene: Plaque buildup fosters decay and gum infection.
          Weakened Immunity: Conditions like diabetes or certain medications impair defense.
          Foreign Bodies: Food particles lodged under the gums can become infected.

          Symptoms of a Dental Abscess

          • Severe, Throbbing Pain: May radiate to jaw, ear, or neck; worsens with pressure.
          • Swelling & Redness: In gums, face, or jaw—sometimes forming a visible bump.
          • Sensitivity: Discomfort with hot, cold, or sweet stimuli.
          • Foul Taste or Odor: From pus draining into the mouth.
          • Fever & General Malaise: Signs of systemic involvement.
          • Tender Lymph Nodes: Under the jaw or in the neck.
          • Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing: In rare, severe cases—seek emergency care immediately.

          Why It’s Serious

          An untreated abscess can spread to the jawbone (osteomyelitis), sinuses (sinusitis), or bloodstream (sepsis). It may also lead to Ludwig’s angina, a life-threatening soft-tissue infection beneath the tongue.

          Professional Treatment

          Drainage: Incision and irrigation to remove pus.

          Antibiotics: To control spreading infection—always combined with definitive treatment.

          Root Canal Therapy: Removes infected pulp, seals the tooth, and often places a crown.

          Extraction: If the tooth is unsalvageable, followed by implant or bridge options.

          Gum Therapy: Scaling, root planing, or surgery for periodontal abscesses.

          Follow-Up Care: Ensures complete healing and monitors for recurrence.

          Advanced diagnostics (digital X-rays, 3D imaging) help tailor each treatment plan for optimal outcomes.

          Home Care for Temporary Relief

          Warm Saltwater Rinse: 1 tsp salt in 8 oz water—rinse gently for 30 seconds.

          OTC Pain Relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen per label directions.

          Cold Compress: 15–20 minutes on the cheek to reduce swelling.

          Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of extreme-temperature or sugary foods.

          Warning: These measures ease symptoms temporarily and do not cure an abscess. Never attempt to pierce or drain it yourself.

          Prevention

          Brush & Floss Daily: Use fluoride toothpaste.

          Regular Dental Visits: Professional cleanings and early cavity detection.

          Prompt Care: Address pain, sensitivity, or swelling without delay.

          Healthy Diet: Limit sugar; choose nutrient-rich foods.

          Protect Your Teeth: Wear a mouthguard for sports or if you grind your teeth.

          Stay Hydrated: Water helps wash away bacteria.

          When to Seek Help

          A dental abscess is an emergency. Contact your dentist immediately if you experience severe pain, facial swelling, fever, or breathing/swallowing difficulty. For after-hours crises, use your dental office’s emergency line or go to the nearest hospital.

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              Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
              Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
              Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
              Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
              Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
              Saturday: By Appointment
              Sunday: Closed
              Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
              Saturday: By Appointment
              Sunday: Closed

              What Is a Toothache?

              What Is a Toothache?

              A toothache is when you feel pain in or around your tooth. It can be a little uncomfortable or very strong and painful. It can be constant or come and go, and it may worsen with certain triggers like eating, drinking, or brushing. Toothaches are often a sign that something is wrong, whether it’s in the tooth itself, the surrounding gums, or even the jaw.
              Toothaches can happen to anyone—kids, adults, or even older people. Understanding the root cause is key to finding relief, which is why visiting a dentist as soon as possible is critical.
              Person holding jaw in pain from a toothache

              Common Causes of Toothaches

              Toothaches can stem from a variety of issues, each requiring specific attention. Here are some of the most common culprits:

              1. Tooth Decay (Cavities)

              Cavities are the leading cause of toothaches. When germs in your mouth eat sugar, they make acid that slowly wears down your teeth and causes tiny holes. If not treated, these cavities can get worse and go deeper into the tooth, reaching the soft inside parts (like dentin or pulp), which can cause pain.

              2. Gum Disease

              Gingivitis or periodontitis can cause gum inflammation, leading to discomfort that feels like a toothache. Receding gums may also expose tooth roots, making them sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods.

              3. Tooth Fractures or Cracks

              A cracked tooth, whether from trauma, biting down on something hard, or grinding your teeth, can cause sharp pain, especially when chewing. Even small cracks can expose nerves, leading to sensitivity.

              4. Dental Abscess

              An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums. This condition can cause intense, throbbing pain and may be accompanied by swelling, fever, or a bad taste in the mouth.

              5. Tooth Sensitivity

              Worn enamel, exposed roots, or cavities can make teeth sensitive to temperature changes or certain foods. While sensitivity isn’t always a toothache, it can feel similar and may indicate an underlying problem.

              6. Impacted Wisdom Teeth

              If your wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to come through properly, they can get stuck, causing pain at the back of your mouth. This can also lead to swelling or an infection.

              7. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

              Chronic teeth grinding, often during sleep, can wear down enamel and strain the jaw, leading to tooth pain or sensitivity.

              8. Sinus Infections

              Surprisingly, sinus issues can mimic toothaches. The roots of your upper teeth are close to your sinuses, so inflammation or infection in this area can cause referred pain in the teeth.

              9. Failed Dental Work

              Old fillings, crowns, or other restorations can crack, loosen, or decay over time, allowing bacteria to enter and cause discomfort.

              Symptoms to Watch For

              Toothache symptoms can vary depending on the cause, but here are some signs that you should see a dentist:
              • Sharp, throbbing, or constant pain in a tooth or surrounding area
              • Sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks
              • Pain when chewing or biting
              • Swollen or bleeding gums
              • Swelling in the face or jaw
              • Fever or a bad taste in the mouth (possible signs of infection)
              • Difficulty opening your mouth or swallowing
              If you experience severe pain, swelling, or fever, seek dental care immediately, as these could indicate a serious infection requiring urgent treatment.

              Home Remedies for Temporary Relief

              While a dentist is the best person to diagnose and treat a toothache, there are some steps you can take at home to manage discomfort until your appointment:

              Warm Saltwater Rinse

              Mix 1 teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water. Swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. This helps clean and soothe the sore spot.

              Pain Medicine

              Alternative options. If the tooth cannot be saved, discuss bridges, implants, or partial dentures.

              Cold Pack

              Put a cold pack or a bag of ice wrapped in a cloth against your cheek for 15–20 minutes. This helps bring down swelling.

              Clove Oil

              Put a tiny drop of clove oil (mix it first with a little cooking oil) on a cotton ball. Gently press it on the sore spot—clove oil can help numb the pain.

              Avoid Irritants

              Don’t eat or drink anything very hot, very cold, or too sweet, as these can make the pain worse.
              Important: These remedies are temporary. A toothache won’t resolve on its own, and delaying professional care can lead to more serious complications.

              Preventing Toothaches

              The best way to deal with toothaches is to prevent them in the first place. Here are some tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy:
              • Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean all tooth surfaces.
              • Floss Daily: Remove plaque and food particles from between teeth to prevent cavities and gum disease.
              • Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks: Sugars feed harmful bacteria, so opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy.
              • Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Routine checkups and cleanings catch problems early, before they turn into toothaches.
              • Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps rinse away bacteria and food debris.

              When to Reach out for Help

              If your toothache lasts more than a day or two, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, swelling, or difficulty breathing, don’t wait—contact Topeka Oral Surgery right away. Even mild pain can be a sign of a problem that needs attention. Our compassionate team is here to provide prompt, effective care to relieve your discomfort and protect your oral health.

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                  Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                  Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                  Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                  Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                  Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                  Saturday: By Appointment
                  Sunday: Closed
                  Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                  Saturday: By Appointment
                  Sunday: Closed

                  How to Handle a Knocked-Out Tooth 

                  How to Handle a Knocked-Out Tooth

                  A knocked-out tooth (avulsed tooth) is a true dental emergency. Acting quickly and correctly can mean the difference between saving your natural tooth and facing costly replacements like bridges or implants. Here’s what you need to do the moment a tooth leaves its socket.
                  How to save a knocked-out tooth

                  1. Stay Calm and Find the Tooth

                  Locate the tooth immediately and pick it up by the crown (the white part).
                  Never touch the root. The root’s surface is lined with fragile cells vital for reattachment.

                  2. Clean the Tooth (Gently!)

                  Rinse carefully. Hold the tooth under a gentle stream of cool water or rinse it in clean saliva for no more than 10 seconds.
                  Avoid scrubbing or chemicals. Do not use soap, alcohol, or brush—it can destroy the root’s healing cells.

                  3. Try to Reinsert the Tooth

                  Align the tooth. Position it in the socket the same way it grew.
                  Press gently. Push it in until it seats snugly.
                  Stabilize. Bite on a clean piece of gauze or cloth for 15–20 minutes to hold it in place.
                  Tip: If reinsertion feels too uncomfortable or you’re unsure about alignment, skip to storage.

                  4. Proper Storage If You Can’t Reinsert

                  Milk is best. Submerge the tooth in pasteurized milk.
                  Saline solution or saliva. A saline soak works well; if neither is available, tuck the tooth inside your cheek (if you’re conscious and can safely keep it there).
                  Do NOT wrap in tissue or let it dry. Dry time kills the cells needed for successful reimplantation.

                  5. Rush to Your Dentist—Stat

                  60‑minute window. Aim to reach a dental clinic within an hour; every minute counts.
                  Call en route. Alert your dentist so they can prepare for emergency treatment.
                  Manage pain and swelling. Apply a cold pack to your cheek in 15‑minute intervals and take ibuprofen if needed (avoid aspirin, which may thin the blood).

                  6. What to Expect at the Dental Office

                  Examination and X‑rays. The dentist will check for root or bone fractures.
                  Reimplantation and splinting. If viable, they will reinsert the tooth and stabilize it with a small splint for 1–2 weeks.
                  Follow‑up care. You may need a root canal later to protect against infection and promote healing.
                  Alternative options. If the tooth cannot be saved, discuss bridges, implants, or partial dentures.

                  7. Prevention and Preparedness

                  Wear a mouthguard. Custom-fitted guards in contact sports reduce dental injury risk by up to 60%.
                  Keep a tooth‑storage kit. Store a small container of saline or milk in your first-aid kit.

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                      Saturday: By Appointment
                      Sunday: Closed
                      Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                      Saturday: By Appointment
                      Sunday: Closed

                       Dental Abscess: Why It’s a Medical Emergency

                      Dental Abscess: Why It’s a Medical Emergency

                      A dental abscess is a painful infection that fills the tooth or gums with pus, usually caused by untreated tooth decay, injury, or gum disease. It’s not just uncomfortable; it’s an emergency because the infection can spread quickly and lead to serious health problems. In this post, we explain why an abscess needs immediate care, how to recognize it, and what to do before seeing a dentist.
                      Dental abscess showing swelling
                      Common symptoms include sharp, throbbing pain that may spread to the jaw or ear, swelling in your gums or face, a bad taste from pus, fever, and difficulty swallowing or breathing. You might also notice a small bump on your gums or feel a loose tooth. These signs suggest a bacterial infection that, if left untreated, could spread to your jaw, neck, or even your bloodstream, causing life-threatening conditions. According to a 2019 study, over 60,000 people in the U.S. were hospitalized for dental infections, showing how risky delaying treatment can be. If left untreated, an abscess can affect vital organs, so quick treatment is necessary.
                      Before you see a dentist, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater (1 tsp in 8 oz of water) every few hours to reduce bacteria and help with pain. You can take ibuprofen to ease pain and swelling, but avoid aspirin as it can increase bleeding. Don’t try to squeeze or pop the abscess yourself—it could make the infection worse.These steps are temporary; a dentist will need to drain the abscess, possibly prescribe antibiotics, or perform a root canal. In serious cases, the dentist may need to remove the tooth
                      If the swelling spreads to your face or neck, or if you have a high fever or trouble breathing, get emergency help right away. These might mean the infection is getting more serious. Even if your symptoms are not severe, it’s important to contact your local emergency department.
                      Suspect a dental abscess? Seek emergency care now to protect your health. Feel free to reach out to us below to coordinate an evaluation of your dental swelling.

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                          Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                          Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                          Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                          Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                          Saturday: By Appointment
                          Sunday: Closed
                          Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                          Saturday: By Appointment
                          Sunday: Closed

                          How to Prevent Dental Emergencies 

                          How to Prevent Dental Emergencies

                          Dental emergencies like knocked-out teeth or abscesses are painful and expensive, but many can be prevented with proactive habits. By making simple changes to your daily habits and lifestyle, you can keep your teeth healthy and reduce the need for emergency dental visits. This post shares practical tips to reduce your risk of dental emergencies, ensuring your smile stays healthy and strong.
                          Start with excellent oral hygiene. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss to remove plaque, which causes cavities that can lead to abscesses or tooth loss. Regular dental checkups every six months allow your dentist to catch issues like weak fillings or early decay before they become emergencies. For example, a small cavity filled early takes minutes, but if ignored, it might require a root canal or extraction.
                          Protect your teeth from injury. If you play sports like soccer or hockey, wear a custom mouthguard—studies show they reduce dental injury risk by up to 60%. If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about a nightguard to prevent cracks or chips. Don’t chew on hard items—such as ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candies—because they can crack your teeth. A common mishap is cracking a molar on an olive pit—sticking to softer foods lowers this risk.
                          High-quality nightguard to prevent dental injuries during sleep
                          Diet impacts dental health significantly. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, as they feed bacteria that erode enamel, leading to cavities. Consume calcium-rich foods like yogurt and cheese to help keep your teeth strong, and rinse your mouth with water after meals to wash away leftover food and bacteria. If you have a history of dental issues, consider sealants or fluoride treatments for added protection.
                          Be prepared for potential emergencies. Keep a dental emergency kit on hand with gauze, dental wax, painkillers, and a small container to safely store a knocked-out tooth. Save your dentist’s emergency number and know the location of a 24/7 clinic. Educate your family, especially kids, about oral safety, like not opening bottles with their teeth or chewing on pens.
                          These habits greatly reduce the likelihood of experiencing a dental emergency. Prevention is easier and cheaper than dealing with the pain and cost of urgent care, so start building these practices today.

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                              Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
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                              Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                              Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                              Saturday: By Appointment
                              Sunday: Closed
                              Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                              Saturday: By Appointment
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                               Broken or Chipped Teeth: Emergency or Urgency

                              Broken or Chipped Teeth: Emergency or Urgency

                              A broken or chipped tooth can happen quickly, like when you bite a hard candy, fall down, or get hurt while playing sports. While some chips are minor cosmetic issues, others are painful emergencies needing urgent care. This post helps you assess the severity, offers first-aid tips, and explains when to see a dentist to prevent complications like infection or tooth loss.
                              Evaluate the damage first. A minor chip, like a small edge flake with no pain, is rarely urgent and can wait a few days for bonding or smoothing. However, a fracture exposing the tooth’s inner layers (dentin or pulp) causes sharp pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, or bleeding, signaling an emergency. Breaks affecting the root or loosening the tooth require same-day care to avoid infection. For example, a cracked molar from chewing ice might expose nerves, needing a crown or root canal.
                              Chipped tooth emergency care - Topeka Oral Surgery
                              After an injury, rinse your mouth gently with warm water to help clean the area and reduce the risk of bacteria. If you find broken pieces of a tooth, put them in milk or salty water to help keep them safe in case the dentist can reattach them. If the broken tooth has sharp edges, cover them with dental wax or sugar-free gum to protect your tongue and cheeks from getting hurt. These are available at pharmacies and can help create a smooth surface on your braces or dental appliance. Apply a cold compress to your face for 15-minute intervals to reduce swelling, and take ibuprofen for pain. Avoid chewing on the injured side and eat soft foods like yogurt or soup.
                              Seek a dentist immediately if you have pain, sensitivity, or visible nerve exposure—same-day care is ideal. For minor chips, schedule within a few days to prevent decay or further cracking. Your dentist may use bonding, a veneer, or a crown for repairs, depending on the break’s extent. Delaying risks infection, as bacteria can enter exposed areas, potentially causing an abscess.
                              Prevent broken or chipped teeth by avoiding hard foods like popcorn kernels or ice and wearing a custom mouthguard during sports or if you grind your teeth at night. Regular dental checkups can identify weak teeth, such as those with large fillings, that are prone to breaking. Keep a dental first-aid kit with wax and gauze, and save your dentist’s emergency number.
                              By assessing the injury and acting promptly, you can protect your tooth and avoid costly repairs. Even small breaks need attention—early care ensures the best outcome.
                              Call to Action: Contact your dental team today to evaluate a broken or chipped tooth and prevent further damage.

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                                  Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
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                                  Saturday: By Appointment
                                  Sunday: Closed
                                  Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
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                                  Managing Severe Tooth Pain: What to Do?

                                  Managing Severe Tooth Pain: What to Do?

                                  Severe tooth pain can be debilitating, disrupting eating, sleeping, and daily life. Often caused by deep decay, a cracked tooth, or an infection, intense pain signals a dental emergency needing professional care. While waiting to see a dentist, safe, temporary measures can ease discomfort and prevent worsening. This post shares practical tips to manage severe tooth pain and flags when to seek urgent help.
                                  Begin by rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater to clean the area and reduce inflammation. Swirl it around in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat this every few hours. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help—follow dosage instructions carefully to avoid overuse. If your cheek is swollen and hurts, gently press a cold cloth on it for 15 minutes at a time to help bring the swelling down. For exposed cavities or broken teeth, cover the sensitive area with dental wax or sugar-free gum, available at pharmacies, to protect nerves from air or temperature changes.
                                  Certain symptoms indicate a serious issue requiring immediate care. Face Swelling , fever, difficulty swallowing, and pain could be signs of an abscess, which is a serious infection that may spread to the jaw or bloodstream . These signs demand emergency dental care, as delays can lead to complications like sepsis, which causes thousands of hospitalizations yearly. Even without these symptoms, persistent pain won’t resolve on its own and requires a dentist’s attention.
                                  Avoid mistakes that can worsen your condition. Don’t place aspirin or other painkillers directly on the gums, as this burns tissue. Avoid probing the tooth with sharp objects like toothpicks, which risks damage or infection. Steer clear of hard or sticky foods that could aggravate the area. These at-home steps are temporary—only a dentist can treat the cause, whether it’s a filling, root canal, or extraction.
                                  Be ready for dental emergencies by keeping a small kit with gauze, dental wax, and pain medicine. Save your dentist’s (Topeka Oral Surgery )emergency number or find a 24/7 dental clinic nearby. If you get sudden pain at night, don’t wait—many dentists can help right away. Booking an appointment ASAP ensures you address the issue before it escalates into a bigger problem.
                                  By following these steps, you can manage severe tooth pain safely until you see a dentist. Don’t delay seeking care, as untreated issues can lead to complex treatments.
                                  Feel free to contact our office below to ensure we can perform a thorough evaluation!

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                                      Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                                      Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                                      Saturday: By Appointment
                                      Sunday: Closed
                                      Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                                      Saturday: By Appointment
                                      Sunday: Closed

                                      Finding an Emergency Dentist: Tips and Resources

                                      Finding an Emergency Dentist: Tips and Resources

                                      A dental emergency like a knocked-out tooth or severe pain demands quick access to a dentist, but finding one during a crisis can be challenging. With preparation, you can locate reliable care fast and get relief. This post gives simple tips on how to find an emergency dentist, what questions to ask, and helpful resources to make the process easier.
                                      Call your regular dentist first. They might be able to help after hours or tell you where to go for emergency care, If they’re unavailable, feel free to reach our office if the tooth is causing so much pain that you cannot sleep or function properly. If you are travelling then we would recommend any local ADA approved dentist, which you could find on a google search.
                                      Don’t delay seeking care, especially for time-sensitive issues like a knocked-out tooth (60-minute window) or an abscess with swelling. If you wait, the pain and problems can get worse and make things much harder. Large infections around a tooth make it difficult to get numb at times.
                                      Feel free to request an appointment below.

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                                          Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                                          Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                                          Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                                          Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                                          Saturday: By Appointment
                                          Sunday: Closed
                                          Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM
                                          Saturday: By Appointment
                                          Sunday: Closed