Are you experiencing a dental emergency? We encourage you to contact our dental office immediately to receive the professional care you need. In the meantime, here are some common dental emergencies and solutions to help keep your smile healthy and happy:

  • Toothache: Rinse the mouth vigorously with warm water. Use dental floss to remove any trapped food. If swelling is present, place cold compresses to the outside of the cheek. Do not use heat. Do not place aspirin on gum tissue or aching tooth.
  • Knocked-out tooth: Do not clean the tooth. Place it in water or milk, or wrap it in a clean, wet cloth. Bring it to our office immediately for possible replacement. If you cannot get dental treatment right away, rinse the tooth (do not scrub!), then reinsert the tooth in the socket and stabilize.
  • Broken tooth: Use warm water to clean dirt and debris from the injured area. Place a cold compress on the face next to the injured tooth to minimize swelling.
  • Object wedged between teeth: Try to remove the object using dental floss. Do not use sharp or pointed objects. Guide the floss in carefully so as not to cut the gums.

If you have experienced any trauma to the head, even if your smile is affected, visit the emergency room first before you visit a dentist. For more dental emergency care in South Salem, New York, and to schedule your visit with Dr. DeLapa, our skilled dentist, please contact our dental office immediately.