RA May, DDS
R. Alan May, DDS
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Common Dental Emergencies and How to Respond Quickly

January 24, 2025
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Posted By: Ricky Alan May, DDS
woman having tooth pain

In a dental emergency, every moment counts. When you break a tooth or wake up with a horrible toothache, fast action can make all the difference for your smile and oral health. At RA May, DDS, we’re here for you when it matters most, providing urgent, compassionate care to relieve your pain and restore your smile.

Don’t wait or suffer in silence; trust our team to respond quickly and help you through the unexpected with expertise and care. Your smile deserves it!

Responding to Common Dental Emergencies

When the unexpected happens, staying calm and acting quickly to save your tooth is essential.

Here are some of the most common dental emergencies we treat and what you can do until you reach our dental office:

  • Severe toothache — If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain, it probably won’t go away on its own, so we urge you to call us immediately. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers and rinse your mouth with warm water to alleviate discomfort.
  • Knocked-out tooth — For a tooth that has been completely knocked out, time is critical. The sooner you can reach our office, the better chance we have to save your tooth. Try to place the tooth back in its socket; if that doesn’t work, store it in your cheek or a glass of milk. Always hold the tooth by its crown, not its roots.
  • Chipped or broken tooth — When you chip or break a tooth, it’s susceptible to bacteria, so we recommend calling us for an appointment. In the meantime, rinse your mouth with warm salt water or apply an ice pack for any pain or swelling.
  • Lost restoration — If you lose a filling or crown, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and place sugarless gum or dental wax over the tooth to protect it. Call us for an appointment as soon as possible.
  • Soft tissue injury — For an injury to your gums, lip, or tongue, apply pressure to stop the bleeding and rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Contact our office if you need assistance.

Need Emergency Dentistry in Tazewell, VA?

If you need a dentist in Tazewell, VA, look no further than the experienced dental team at RA May, DDS! We can provide the emergency treatment you need and get you back to enjoying your day.

To schedule an appointment, we welcome your call at (276) 988-5554.

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