West Union Emergency Dentistry
We’re Here When You Need Us
Emergency dentistry at Smile Designs of Southern Ohio provides prompt care when unexpected dental problems arise. Whether you're dealing with a severe toothache, a broken tooth, or another urgent concern, Dr. Ben McDonald and our team are here to help relieve discomfort and protect your smile.
What Is Emergency Dentistry?
A dental emergency is any oral health issue that requires prompt attention to relieve discomfort, protect your oral health, or prevent further damage. While some problems can wait for a routine appointment, others should be evaluated by a dentist as soon as possible.
Common dental emergencies include:
- Severe or persistent toothaches
- Knocked-out teeth
- Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
- Lost fillings or crowns
- Swelling or signs of infection
- Injuries to the teeth, gums, lips, or mouth
If you're unsure whether your situation is an emergency, contact Smile Designs of Southern Ohio. Our team can help you determine the next steps and schedule an appointment if prompt care is needed.
If you're experiencing severe facial swelling, difficulty breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, or another medical emergency, call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room immediately.
What To Do During a Dental Emergency?
Taking the right steps during a dental emergency can help protect your smile until you're able to see Dr. Ben McDonald. If you're experiencing an urgent dental issue, we recommend:
Contact Our Office
Call Smile Designs of Southern Ohio as soon as possible. Our team will help determine the urgency of your situation, provide guidance over the phone, and schedule an appointment if needed.
Protect the Affected Area
Depending on your injury, you may be able to rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, or save a knocked-out tooth until you arrive for treatment. We'll let you know the best steps to take based on your specific situation.
Avoid Further Injury
Try not to chew on the affected side of your mouth, and avoid touching or putting pressure on the injured tooth whenever possible until you've been evaluated.
Common Dental Emergencies
While every dental emergency is different, knowing what to do can help protect your smile before you arrive at our office. Here are a few of the most common dental emergencies we treat at Smile Designs of Southern Ohio.
Severe Toothache
A severe or persistent toothache can be a sign of an underlying dental problem that needs prompt attention. Until you can see Dr. McDonald, gently rinse your mouth with warm water and avoid chewing on the affected side.
Contact our office so we can determine the cause of your discomfort and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If a permanent tooth has been knocked out, pick it up by the crown rather than the root and gently rinse away any dirt. If possible, place the tooth back into its socket or store it in milk until you can reach our office. Seeking care as quickly as possible gives your tooth the best chance of being saved.
Broken or Cracked Tooth
A chipped, cracked, or broken tooth should be evaluated promptly to prevent additional damage. Rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress if there's swelling, and save any broken pieces if you can. Dr. McDonald will examine the tooth and recommend the best way to restore your smile.
Lost Filling or Crown
A lost filling or crown can leave your tooth more sensitive and vulnerable to damage. Contact our office as soon as possible to schedule a repair. Until your appointment, avoid chewing on the affected tooth and keep the area as clean as possible.
Get the Care You Need
If you're experiencing a dental emergency, don't wait to get the care you need. Contact Smile Designs of Southern Ohio today to schedule an emergency appointment with Dr. McDonald, and we'll help you get your oral health back on track as quickly as possible.