Emergency Services

Dental Emergency Services

EVENING AND SATURDAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

Give us a call – 858-272-6047

Emergencies happen — and not always during office hours. Pacific Beach emergency dentist Dr. Ricardo Hernandez of Pacific Beach Smile Studio understands and makes himself available during unexpected emergencies. Whether it is 2 p.m. or 2 a.m., he is reachable by phone to consult with and coordinate how to appropriately triage the emergency. When you meet with Dr. Hernandez for emergency care, he provides both short-term relief and long-term treatment solutions to address whatever has caused you pain.

If you find yourself faced with a dental emergency, it is helpful to know what to do. A few simple steps can mean the difference between saving a tooth and losing it.

Toothache

Everyone has a different tolerance for pain. However, if you have had persistent toothache pain for several days, or it is getting increasingly worse, you should see Dr. Hernandez. He can diagnose the problem and begin treatment immediately. The toothache could be a symptom of a severe dental problem such as an abscess or decay. In the meantime, you can rinse out the mouth with warm water, and use dental floss to remove any food or debris stuck between the teeth. Contrary to what some advise, do not put aspirin on the teeth or gums.

Dental Abscess

An abscess is an infection around the root of the tooth or in the space between the teeth and gums. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the rest of the body. An abscess typically looks swollen and may be filled with pus (resembling a pimple). If you notice an abscess, make an appointment with Dr. Hernandez immediately. In the meantime, you can rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution; this may soothe the pain and draw pus to the surface.

Knocked-Out Tooth

If a natural tooth has been knocked out in a car accident, fall, physical altercation or sporting event, it might be salvaged. It requires a visit to our dental office as soon as possible following the injury or trauma. The tooth must be in good condition in order for Dr. Hernandez to successfully re-implant it. Handle the tooth only by its crown (not the root). Clean the tooth in a glass of water or milk. You can try positioning the cleaned tooth back in the socket and bite down to keep it in place; use gauze or a wet tea bag. If you can’t position the tooth correctly, keep it in a container of milk or water, or between your cheeks and gums if no other suitable liquid is available.

Soft Tissue Injuries

A soft tissue injury is an injury to the tongue, cheeks, gums and lips that may cause bleeding. You can rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution and place a moist piece of gauze near the site of the bleeding. Placing a cold compress on the outside of the mouth or cheek can also help reduce pain. If the bleeding persists, contact Dr. Hernandez. If it is severe, go to the emergency room at a local hospital.

Chipped or Cracked Tooth

Rinse out the mouth with warm water to clean it, and schedule an appointment with Dr. Hernandez as soon as possible. If you experience swelling, place a cold compress on your face.

Lost Restoration

If a filling or dental crown falls out of the mouth, call Dr. Hernandez immediately. Try to keep the crown with you, if possible.

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