Do you know a dental emergency when you see one? Our Lehi, UT, dentist, Dr. David Gordon of Gordon Family Dental, discusses 
common emergencies and explains how you should handle them.
You experience a blow to the mouth
Blows to the mouth, whether they're caused by accidents, falls or sporting injuries, can cause four common problems:
- Loose Teeth: Teeth can become loose or even move out of position if you take a knee to the mouth during a soccer game or trip over your dog and fall on your face. Once you determine that your tooth is loose, don't touch it or chew on it during your trip to your emergency appointment. If you notice that a tooth is misaligned after a blow to the face, try to gently push it back into place. If it won't move, don't force it.
- Knocked Out Teeth: It may be possible to re-implant a knocked out tooth if you act quickly. After you locate the lost tooth, rinse it off, then try to place it back in the socket. If that doesn't work, put the tooth between your teeth and gum, or wrap it in gauze, then put in a container filled with milk or your saliva. Implantation is most successful if it occurs within an hour after your tooth is knocked out.
- Fractured Teeth: Although teeth are naturally tough, they can break if exposed to strong forces. Broken teeth can be very sensitive and may also cut your mouth. Fortunately, you can reduce your pain by applying a little dental cement, available for sale at drugstores, to the broken edges of your teeth.
Over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs may be helpful in relieving pain caused by any of these injuries.
You have an abscess
Bacterial infections known as abscesses are also dental emergencies. Abscess symptoms are difficult to ignore and typically include severe pain, swollen lymph nodes in under your jaw or in your neck, fever, gum swelling, or pus around your tooth.
Call us immediately if you experience any of these emergencies. Whether you require emergency care or want to make an appointment for a checkup, we're committed to helping you maintain good oral health. Schedule your next visit with Dr. Gordon of Gordon Family Dental in Lehi, UT by calling (801) 766-6344.