1610 East Girard Place, Suite B, Englewood, CO 80113
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Emergency Procedures

Dental emergencies don’t adhere to schedules, and we understand the discomfort and anxiety they can bring. That’s why our dedicated team at Sopris Smiles is here to offer not just dental care but also reassurance and comfort when you need it most. Learn about when to visit an emergency dentist in Englewood, CO, and how to prevent dental mishaps in the future.

What Does an Emergency Dentist Do?

An emergency dentist is a dental healthcare specialist who treats urgent dental issues beyond regular office hours. Their primary goal is to provide immediate relief and prevent further complications.

Here are some of the key services an emergency dentist offers:

  • Pain Relief: Emergency dentists alleviate severe toothaches and discomfort through medications and dental procedures.
  • Treatment for Injuries: If you’ve experienced an injury to your mouth, teeth, or jaw, an emergency dentist can assess the damage and provide the necessary treatment right away.
  • Tooth Restoration: Whether you’ve chipped, cracked, or lost a tooth, an emergency dentist can repair or replace it to restore your smile.
  • Emergency Extractions: In cases where a tooth is severely damaged or infected, extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection.
  • Dental Infections: If you suspect you have a dental infection, an emergency dentist can diagnose and treat it promptly to prevent it from spreading.

Common Dental Emergencies

Severe Toothache

A severe toothache can be debilitating and it’s often a sign of an underlying issue such as a dental infection or abscess. An emergency dentist can provide immediate pain relief and determine the cause of the pain.

Knocked-Out Tooth

If a tooth gets knocked out due to an accident or injury, time is of the essence. Try to place the tooth back in the socket if possible and visit an emergency dentist within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.

Chipped or Broken Tooth

Chipped or broken teeth can cause sharp pain and make your smile look uneven. An emergency dentist can repair the tooth, often with techniques like bonding, veneers, or dental crowns.

Lost Filling or Crown

A lost filling or crown can expose sensitive areas of the tooth and cause discomfort. An emergency dentist can replace the filling or crown to protect the tooth.

Abscess or Swelling

Dental abscesses can lead to severe swelling, pain, and potentially life-threatening infections. Seek immediate care from an emergency dentist if you suspect an abscess.

Injury to the Gums or Soft Tissues

An emergency dentist should evaluate Injuries to the gums or soft tissues in the mouth to prevent infection and ensure proper healing.

Orthodontic Emergencies

If you have braces or other appliances and experience a wire breakage or other issues causing discomfort, an emergency dentist can provide relief and repair the orthodontic device.

What Should I Bring to My Emergency Dental Appointment?

When visiting an emergency dentist, it’s helpful to bring the following:

  • Identification
  • Dental insurance information
  • Any relevant dental records or X-rays
  • A list of medications you are currently taking
  • Any objects or pieces of a tooth if applicable

Tips to Prevent Dental Emergencies

Most dental emergencies result from either accidents or untreated dental health conditions. Therefore, one of the most effective methods of avoiding emergencies is following good dental hygiene practices – brushing twice a day, flossing after meals, and avoiding sugary foods, tobacco, and alcohol. It is also good practice to wear a mouthguard while playing sports and never use your teeth as tools.

Prevention is always the best approach to dental emergencies. Here are some tips to minimize your risk:

  • Maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing.
  • Wear mouthguards during sports or physical activities to protect your teeth.
  • Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels, or pens.
  • Be cautious with sticky foods that can damage dental work or pull-out fillings.
  • Don’t use your teeth as tools for opening bottles or packages.
  • Schedule regular dental check-ups to catch and address potential issues early.

Knowing When to Visit an Emergency Dentist

Understanding the difference between a dental emergency and something that can wait for an appointment can save you a lot of time, money, and stress. Generally speaking, emergencies require immediate treatment, the following would qualify:

  • Severe and unexplained toothache
  • Bleeding gums
  • Swollen jaw
  • Abscessed tooth
  • Knocked out tooth
  • Lost filling

Some situations, however, are not quite emergencies. If you experience the following, you should schedule an appointment right away, but won’t need to rush for emergency care:

Contact an Emergency Dentist in in Englewood, CO, Today!

If you find yourself in a dental crisis, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our expert team will alleviate your pain, address your concerns, and restore your oral health. Contact us today!