Tooth Trouble? Act Fast and Save Your Smile
Dental emergencies can be scary and painful, but knowing how to handle them can make all the difference. At Executive Dentistry, our Dearborn dentist, Dr. Kalil Abraham, can help you understand the different types of dental emergencies and what steps to take if one occurs.
Learn more by dialing (313) 914-4440 or reading the helpful guide below.
What Is A Dental Emergency?
If you’re experiencing severe pain, bleeding, or swelling in your mouth, or if you have a broken tooth or jaw, it’s considered a dental emergency. Any injury to your mouth that results in bleeding or cuts to your lips, tongue, or inside of your mouth that won’t stop bleeding after applying pressure for 15 minutes is also considered a dental emergency. Additionally, if you have a loose or knocked-out tooth, seek immediate dental care.
Types of Dental Emergencies
There are several common dental emergencies you may encounter, including:
- Broken or Chipped Tooth: This can be caused by a fall, sports injury, or biting down on something hard.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: This can happen due to a blow to the face or a fall.
- Toothache or Abscess: This can occur due to tooth decay or an infection.
- Lost Filling or Crown: This can occur due to decay, wear and tear, or biting down on something hard.
- Broken Braces or Wires: This can cause discomfort or injury to the mouth.
What to Do During Dental Emergencies
If you experience a dental emergency, the first thing to do is remain calm. There are some immediate steps you’ll want to take based on the emergency you’re experiencing.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
If you have a broken or chipped tooth, you should rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Take over-the-counter pain medication if necessary. Cover the broken or chipped tooth with dental cement or sugarless gum to protect it.
Schedule an appointment with your Dearborn emergency dentist as soon as possible. If you have a broken piece of the tooth, bring it with you so they can repair the tooth.
Knocked-out Tooth
If you have a knocked-out tooth, retrieve it but be careful to hold it by the crown (not the root) and rinse it gently with water. Try to reinsert the tooth into the socket if possible, or place it in a container of milk or saliva to keep it moist. Visit our Dearborn dental office or emergency room immediately. If you can’t reinsert the tooth, the dentist may be able to reimplant it using emergency dental procedures.
Toothache or Abscess
If you’re experiencing a toothache or a dental abscess, rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. You can also use dental floss to remove any food particles. Apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling, and take over-the-counter pain medication if necessary. See your Dearborn emergency dentist as soon as possible to diagnose and treat the underlying cause of the toothache or abscess.
Lost Filling or Crown
Did you lose a dental filling or crown? Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Cover the exposed tooth with dental cement or sugarless gum to prevent further damage. Schedule an appointment to see your Dearborn dentist as soon as possible to replace the filling or crown.
Broken Braces or Wires
If you have braces, it’s important to be careful when eating or participating in activities that could damage your braces or wires. However, accidents can still happen, and you may find yourself with a broken bracket or wire. Here’s what you should do if this happens:
- While a broken bracket or wire can be uncomfortable, it’s not an emergency.
- If a wire is sticking out and causing discomfort, try using a cotton swab or pencil eraser to push the wire into a more comfortable position.
- If a bracket is loose or has fallen off, keep it in a safe place and bring it with you to your next orthodontist appointment.
- Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp or protruding edges causing discomfort.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that could further damage your braces or wires.
- Contact your Dearborn dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment to have the broken bracket or wire repaired.
Dental Emergencies While Travelling
If you have a dental emergency while traveling, try to locate a local dentist or emergency room. It’s also a good idea to carry the contact information for your regular dentist with you while traveling. If you’re unable to find a dentist, contact your Dearborn dentist by dialing (313) 914-4440 for advice.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
While dental emergencies can happen to anyone, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Here are some tips for preventing dental emergencies:
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting your dentist regularly.
- Wear a mouthguard while participating in sports or other high-impact activities.
- Avoid biting down on hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels, or pens.
- Use scissors to cut things instead of using your teeth.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools to open packages or bottles.
- If you have braces, follow your orthodontist’s instructions for care and maintenance.
- If you grind your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about getting a mouthguard to protect your teeth.
Dental Emergencies Don’t Wait — Neither Should You!
Dental emergencies can happen at any time, so it’s important to be prepared. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t wait to seek treatment. Contact Executive Dentistry by dialing [phone number] as soon as possible. Quick action can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth. Executive Dentistry serves new and returning patients from Dearborn and surrounding areas.
Why Dental Health Is Important
Maintaining good dental health is crucial for overall health and well-being. Poor dental hygiene can lead to a wide array of dental problems and even negatively impact other areas of the body. By practicing good dental habits, you can avoid common dental problems and keep your smile healthy and bright.
Learn more about dental health and how to maintain yours by dialing (313) 914-4440 and scheduling a consultation with Dr. Kalil Abraham at Executive Dentistry.
Proper Oral Hygiene Tips From Dr. Kalil Abraham
Brushing and Flossing Techniques
Proper brushing and flossing are essential for good dental health. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time, using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the fronts, backs, and tops. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, as it can harbor bacteria and cause bad breath.
Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach. To floss correctly, use a piece of floss about 18 inches long. Wrap the floss around your fingers and gently slide it between your teeth. Curve the floss around each tooth and move it up and down to remove any debris.
Eating Habits and Dental Health
What you eat can have a serious impact on your dental health. Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables can help promote healthy teeth and gums. Foods high in sugar and starch can promote the growth of bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. Be sure to drink plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated and rinse away any food particles.
Regular Dental Checkups and Cleanings
Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are essential for maintaining good dental health. During a dental checkup, your Dearborn dentist will examine your teeth and gums for any signs of decay or disease. They may also take X-rays to check for any hidden problems and get a more in-depth idea of the state of your oral health.
Dental cleanings involve removing any built-up plaque and tartar from your teeth, which can help prevent cavities and gum disease. Your Dearborn dentist or dental hygienist will use special tools to clean your teeth, paying special attention to areas where a toothbrush and floss normally can’t reach. They may also provide tips for improving your dental hygiene at home.
Common Dental Problems and How to Avoid Them
Cavities and Tooth Decay
Cavities are one of the most common dental problems caused by plaque buildup on teeth. Visible pits or holes in the teeth, dark spots, or stains on the teeth can all be signs of cavities. Those with tooth decay may also experience tooth sensitivity or pain when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
To avoid cavities, make sure to:
- Brush and floss regularly to remove plaque and prevent bacteria from building up
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Receiving regular dental checkups and professional cleanings
Tooth decay occurs when the enamel on teeth wears away, leaving them vulnerable to bacteria and decay. Some of the common signs and symptoms of tooth decay include tooth sensitivity or pain when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. You may also notice visible pits or holes in the teeth. Another sign can be bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth.
To avoid tooth decay, it’s important to:
- Brush and floss regularly
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Receive regular dental checkups and cleanings
Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by untreated plaque buildup that can lead to inflammation, bleeding gums, and tooth loss. Some of the signs and symptoms of gum disease can range from swollen, red, or tender gums to bleeding when brushing or flossing. You may also notice receding gums or teeth that appear longer.
To avoid gum disease, you should:
- Brush and floss regularly
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist
- Avoid tobacco products
- Maintain a healthy diet
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a common problem that can cause discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. One of the most common symptoms include pain or discomfort when brushing or flossing. You may also experience aching or throbbing pain in the teeth.
To avoid tooth sensitivity, you can:
- Practice good dental hygiene
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Limit acidic foods and drinks
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Avoiding teeth grinding
Bad Breath
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth, poor dental hygiene, or certain foods and drinks. Persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away after brushing, flossing, or using mouthwash is one of the signs of bad breath. Those with chronic bad breath may notice a persistent bad taste in their mouths, dry mouth, or thick saliva.
To avoid bad breath, it’s important to:
- Practice good dental hygiene and brush and floss regularly
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid foods and drinks that can cause bad breath, such as garlic and coffee
Take Care of Your Oral Health
Taking care of your teeth and gums is essential for maintaining good oral health and overall well-being. If you’re experiencing any dental problems or haven’t had a checkup in a while, schedule an appointment with our Dearborn dentist today by dialing (313) 914-4440.
By following the tips and advice recommended by your Dearborn dentist you can prevent common dental problems and keep your smile healthy and beautiful for years to come. Executive Dentistry serves patients from Dearborn and surrounding areas.
Smoking Out Your Smile
The renowned dentists at Executive Dentistry in Dearborn, MI see regularly the devastating effects of smoking on oral health. Head dentist, Dr. Kalil Abraham, says that many of his patients who smoke cigarettes or use other tobacco products present discolored teeth, receding gums, and symptoms of oral cancer.
At Executive Dentistry’s state-of-the-art facility, Dr. Abraham and his expert team employ the latest dental technology to restore damaged smiles. However, he always advises patients that preventing dental issues via smoking cessation is far easier than the repairs and treatment needed afterward. Learn more by calling our Dearborn office by dialing (313) 914-4440.
Main Effects of Smoking on Oral Health
Stained Teeth and Bad Breath
Tar and nicotine from smoking can become embedded in tooth enamel over time, leading to yellowing and discoloration of teeth. The chemicals also cause noxious breath odors that brushing, flossing, and mouthwash cannot eliminate. Smokers are prone to permanent tobacco-stained teeth and unrelenting bad breath.
Increased Risk of Gum Disease and Tooth Loss
Smoking affects your oral health by restricting blood flow and changing the balance of bacteria in your mouth. This leads to inflammation and degradation of the gums holding your teeth in place. Gum disease is six times more prevalent among smokers. Without treatment, receding inflamed gums can progressively loosen teeth, even causing them to fall out.
Higher Rates of Oral Cancer
Of the thousands of toxins in tobacco smoke, over 60 are known to have carcinogenic effects. These chemicals accumulate in the cells of mouth tissue, causing mutations in DNA that lead to malignant oral cancers.
Other Potential Effects of Smoking
- Delayed Healing After Dental Procedures: The restricted blood flow caused by smoking impairs and delays the healing of mouth tissue from injuries or dental surgery. Dry sockets and infections are more common complications after procedures.
- Masking Other Dental Issues: Long-term smokers often experience a blunted sensitivity to pain stimuli. This means serious dental problems can go unnoticed, worsening underlying issues.
- Higher Levels of Dental Plaque: Studies show tobacco smoke alters the pH balance of saliva, making smokers more prone to plaque accumulation and triggering tooth decay.
Quitting Smoking for Better Oral Health
While long-term smoking damage cannot be reversed, quitting leads to rapid improvements in oral health. In as little as one month after smoking, blood flow and cell regrowth in the mouth are enhanced. After several smoke-free years, cancer risks approach that of non-smokers.
To mitigate the effects of years of tobacco use on teeth and gums, frequent professional dental cleaning and oral exams are very important for smokers aiming to quit.
Tips to Quit Smoking and Improve Oral Hygiene
- Set a Quit Date – Choose a specific date to quit, providing a clear starting point and a goal to work towards.
- Build a Support System – Inform friends and family about your decision to quit, creating a supportive network to help you through challenging times.
- Consider Nicotine Replacement Therapy(NRT) – Explore options like patches or gum to manage withdrawal symptoms, consulting with a healthcare professional for guidance.
- Find Alternative Coping Mechanisms – Replace smoking with healthier habits such as exercise or engaging in activities that keep your hands and mind busy.
- Reward Yourself and Track Progress – Celebrate milestones, treat yourself with rewards, and keep a journal to monitor your progress, reinforcing your commitment to quitting.
Regain Your Oral Health – Executive Dentistry’s Team Awaits
The effects of smoking on oral health can be devastating, but it is never too late to make a change. The skilled and compassionate dentists at Executive Dentistry have helped hundreds of people improve their oral and overall health by quitting smoking. We know you can do it too.
Don’t wait another day – pick up the phone now and call (313) 914-4440 to schedule a consultation. Together we will customize a smoking cessation and oral health recovery plan that works for you. We serve new and returning patients from Dearborn and surrounding areas.