Emergency Dentistry Specialist

What do emergency dentists do?

Emergency dentists treat mouth and dental injuries that require immediate attention. Emergency dental situations usually involve saving knocked-out or broken teeth. Visiting High Line Dentistry within half an hour of your mouth or tooth injury gives you the best chance to save your tooth.

When should I call an emergency dentist?

It's a good idea to seek immediate emergency dental care whenever you or a family member are suffering from a severe oral injury or other excruciating condition. These types of situations are generally considered dental emergencies:

• Knocked-out teeth
• A loose permanent tooth
• Intense tooth or mouth pain
• Bleeding inside your mouth from your gums, cheeks, or tongue
• An injury to your face or mouth
• Swelling in your tongue, gums, or mouth
• A badly fractured or cracked tooth
• A cut or tear on your lips

If a tooth is slightly chipped and doesn't hurt, though, you might not be dealing with a dental emergency. That said, feel free to contact Dr. Tema Starkman at High Line Dentistry if you're concerned. She can explain how to take care of your tooth until you can make it into the office.

How do I care for a knocked-out tooth?

Quick action is imperative for a dental emergency like a knocked-out tooth. Put off going to the dentist and you could lose the tooth entirely. To try and save the tooth, start by cleaning the injured tooth and the inside of your mouth. Swish warm water around your mouth and rinse the tooth in warm water, being careful to avoid touching the tooth's roots.

As you clean the tooth, hold it gently by the top, or crown. Never pick up your tooth from the root. If you can, hold the cleaned tooth by the crown and reinsert it into the empty socket. Close your mouth slowly. Hold the tooth in place with your fingers or gently bite down on it to help it stay in place until you can visit High Line Dentistry. Call the office right away. Or, have a family member or friend call to let our staff know you're on your way.

If the tooth can't be replaced in the empty socket, place it in a small cup of cold milk. The milk will help preserve the roots until you can make it into the office. When you're facing a dental emergency, call High Line Dentistry for expert assistance, or simply come into the office. Walk-ins are always welcome.