In a recent blog, we talked about how dental crowns may be used if you have cracked a tooth. This type of damage can cause discomfort and anxiety for you, as you may not know if it can be repaired. Your team at Healthy Smiles in Houston, TX, is equipped to handle many dental emergencies, included cracked teeth. In today’s blog, we’re here to talk about what to do when you experience a serious smile-related injury.
Preventive Measures Can Help Avoid Damage
While some accidents cannot always be avoided, there are a few steps you can take to keep your smile safe from harm. First, remember to see your dentist twice a year for a checkup. Cleanings and examinations give your dentist a chance to monitor for issues like cavities and bruxism which can lead to serious damage if left untreated. Cavities can be treated promptly with a filling to help avoid infections and aches. Bruxism causes you to chronically grind your teeth, which can lead to excessive wear and a higher chance of chipping. Your dentist may be able to find early signs of this condition and treat it to avoid emergencies in the future.
Toothaches, Cracks, And Other Injuries
Urgent dental care comes in many forms, and it’s important to know what to do in each situation. Toothaches commonly happen due to serious cavities, fractures, grinding your teeth, and more. If you have had an aching tooth for longer than a day, call your dentist for an urgent visit. You may be able to apply a cold compress or take over-the-counter pain reducers while you wait. If you have chipped or cracked a tooth, apply gauze or cloth to the area to reduce bleeding. Then, call your dentist for an emergency visit. We’ll do our best to get you in as soon as possible, but if we are not able to see you immediately, we will give you care instructions until we can see you.
Our Team Is Here To Help
You may be wondering what options are available to help restore your smile after an injury. Depending on the severity of the injury, common restorations like dental crowns, fillings, or removals are necessary. Dental crowns can be used to repair your tooth after it has been chipped or cracked. A filling may be recommended if you have a cavity, but if the decay is more serious root canal treatment may be necessary. If restoring the tooth is not possible, removing the structure may be another alternative to relieve discomfort.
Call Us For An Urgent Visit
An injury to your smile can’t wait until your next visit. If you have harmed one of your pearly whites, call the team at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry in Houston, TX, today at (281) 974-4494 to schedule your visit.