When you need urgent dental care, we want you to know that help is available at Sunshine Dental in Albuquerque, NM. Dr. Lilian Jaime and our team are here to address dental emergencies, whether you’re dealing with severe tooth pain, a broken tooth, or unexpected swelling. But what if you’re experiencing these symptoms right now and can’t make it to our office immediately? You may be unsure how to manage the discomfort, protect your tooth, or keep the problem from getting worse while you wait.
Although nothing replaces professional dental treatment, you can do a few things in the meantime. These temporary measures won’t repair a damaged tooth, eliminate an infection, or resolve the underlying problem. However, they may help you manage discomfort and avoid further injury until we can provide the care you need.
What To do if Until You Receive Urgent Dental Care
If you’re waiting for urgent dental care, a few simple precautions can help you manage discomfort and protect your teeth until we can see you.
However, what you should do depends on your symptoms.
If You Have Severe Tooth Pain
A persistent toothache can make eating, drinking, and even resting uncomfortable.
Until we can examine the tooth, try the following:
- Rinse gently with warm salt water to help clean the area.
- If you have swelling, apply a cold compress to your cheek in 10-minute intervals.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed.
If Your Tooth Breaks or Chips
Even without pain, a broken tooth deserves attention. In the meantime:
- Save any broken pieces and bring them to your appointment.
- Cover sharp edges with dental wax to protect your tongue and cheeks.
- Avoid chewing on the damaged tooth.
If Your Crown or Filling Comes Loose
A missing restoration can leave your tooth sensitive and vulnerable to further damage.
Before your appointment:
- Keep a dislodged crown in a safe place so we can examine it.
- Brush gently around the affected tooth to keep it clean.
- Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.
- Never use household glue to reattach a crown. Contact us before attempting any temporary repair.
When You Shouldn’t Wait for Dental Care
Some dental problems require more than temporary relief. Although the tips above can help you manage discomfort, certain symptoms call for prompt treatment to prevent complications.
Contact Sunshine Dental as soon as possible if you experience:
- Severe or persistent tooth pain
- A broken tooth with significant pain or exposed inner tissue
- Swelling around a tooth or signs of a dental infection
- A lost crown or filling accompanied by significant pain
A knocked-out tooth also requires immediate dental attention. Acting quickly can sometimes mean saving the tooth.
Seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Rapidly spreading swelling in your face or neck
- Bleeding that won’t stop or a serious facial injury
- High fever, confusion, or severe illness associated with a suspected dental infection
If you’re experiencing any of these serious symptoms, go to the nearest emergency department.
Get Urgent Dental Care in Albuquerque, NM
Dental pain and unexpected injuries can leave you feeling helpless, especially when you’re trying to manage the problem on your own.
At Sunshine Dental, we want you to know that you don’t have to figure everything out before calling us. Dr. Lilian Jaime prioritizes patients experiencing dental emergencies, and we reserve time during regular office hours for same-day appointments.
Our immediate priority is to identify what’s causing your symptoms and help relieve your discomfort. From there, we’ll explain what treatment may be necessary to address the problem.
Call Sunshine Dental at (505) 355-0021 for urgent dental care in Albuquerque, NM.
