Emergency Care

A dental emergency is any situation involving the teeth, gums, or jaw that requires immediate care to relieve pain, prevent further damage, or address a serious infection. Unlike routine dental issues that can wait for a scheduled appointment, dental emergencies often involve sudden discomfort or injury that needs prompt attention.

Common examples of dental emergencies include:

• Severe toothaches or abscesses
• Chipped, cracked, or fractured teeth
• Knocked-out teeth
• Loose or dislodged teeth
• Injuries to the gums, tongue, or cheeks
• Lost fillings or crowns
• Broken dentures or other dental appliances

Knowing what constitutes an emergency can help you make informed decisions about when to seek immediate care. If you are uncertain whether your situation is an emergency, contact Infinite Smile Dental for guidance.

Common Dental Emergencies in Pleasanton, CA and How to Respond

Understanding how to respond to various dental emergencies can improve the outcome of treatment. Here are some of the most frequent types of dental emergencies and immediate actions to take:

Severe Toothache

A sudden, severe toothache can be caused by various issues, such as decay, infection, or damage to the tooth pulp. Symptoms may include throbbing pain, swelling, and sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.

What to Do:

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce inflammation.
• Use dental floss to remove any debris that might be stuck between teeth.
• Apply a cold compress to the cheek if there is swelling, but avoid applying heat.
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed, but avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth, as it can irritate the gum tissue.

When to Seek Help:

Contact Dr. Kimberly G. Kau immediately if the pain persists, as this may indicate an infection or damage to the tooth that requires prompt treatment. Contact us to learn more.

Chipped, Cracked, or Fractured Teeth

Teeth can crack or chip due to trauma, biting down on hard objects, or grinding. These injuries vary in severity, with deeper cracks posing risks to the tooth’s structure and nerve.

What to Do:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
• Save any broken pieces of the tooth if possible.
• Apply gauze if there is bleeding and hold it in place until the bleeding stops.
• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.

When to Seek Help:

Even if the crack or chip appears minor, it’s important to see Dr. Kau as soon as possible to prevent further damage and restore the tooth.

Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate action. Quick response increases the chances of saving and reimplanting the tooth.

What to Do:

• Hold the tooth by the crown (top part), not the root, to avoid damaging the tissue.
• Rinse the tooth gently with water if it’s dirty, but avoid scrubbing or drying it.
• Attempt to place the tooth back into its socket, but if this isn’t possible, keep it moist by placing it in milk or a saline solution.

When to Seek Help:

Contact Infinite Smile Dental immediately. Dr. Kau will examine the injury and attempt to reimplant the tooth if it’s viable. Time is critical—reimplantation is more successful if treatment is sought within 30 minutes.

Lost Filling or Crown

Losing a filling or crown can leave the affected tooth vulnerable to further damage and sensitivity.

What to Do:

• Keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side.
• Over-the-counter dental cement can be used temporarily to cover the exposed area if you cannot see Dr. Kau right away.
• If a crown comes off, try to slip it back over the tooth using dental cement or toothpaste as a temporary adhesive.

When to Seek Help:

Visit Infinite Smile Dental as soon as possible to restore the filling or crown and protect the tooth from further decay or breakage.

Broken Dentures or Dental Appliances

Broken dentures, braces, or other appliances can interfere with eating and speaking comfortably.

What to Do:

• Avoid trying to fix the appliance on your own, as improper repair could cause more damage.
• Keep any broken pieces and bring them to the appointment.

When to Seek Help:

Contact Dr. Kau for repair or replacement options to ensure the fit and function of your appliance.

Treatments for Dental Emergencies at Infinite Smile Dental in Pleasanton, CA

Dr. Kau provides a range of treatments designed to relieve pain, treat infections, and repair damage caused by dental emergencies. Here are some of the most common emergency treatments offered:

Emergency Tooth Extractions

If a tooth is severely damaged or infected and cannot be saved, an extraction may be necessary to relieve pain and prevent further complications. Dr. Kau uses advanced techniques to ensure a comfortable experience and provide guidance on tooth replacement options.

Root Canal Therapy

In cases of infection or damage to the tooth’s pulp, root canal therapy may be required to save the tooth. This treatment involves removing the infected tissue, cleaning the area, and sealing the tooth to prevent reinfection. Root canals are an effective option for alleviating pain and preserving natural teeth.

Dental Crowns

For cracked or damaged teeth, dental crowns are often used to restore strength and appearance. Crowns cover the entire visible part of the tooth, protecting it from further harm and restoring its function.

Tooth Reimplantation

For knocked-out teeth, reimplantation may be possible if the tooth is handled and stored properly before treatment. Dr. Kau will carefully examine the tooth and surrounding tissue to determine if reattachment is viable.

Abscess Drainage and Antibiotics

An abscess is a pocket of infection that can cause severe pain and swelling. Dr. Kau may need to drain the abscess and prescribe antibiotics to control the infection and reduce inflammation.

Temporary Restorations

In situations where a permanent restoration cannot be completed immediately, Dr. Kau may provide temporary fillings, crowns, or bonding to protect the affected tooth until a follow-up appointment.

Prevention Tips to Reduce the Risk of Dental Emergencies

While accidents and emergencies are sometimes unavoidable, certain preventive measures can reduce the risk of dental emergencies:

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice daily, flossing, and visiting Dr. Kau regularly can help prevent decay and gum disease, which are common causes of dental emergencies.
2. Wear a Mouthguard: If you participate in sports or grind your teeth, wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard can protect your teeth from trauma and injury.
3. Avoid Hard Foods and Objects: Biting down on ice, hard candies, or using your teeth as tools can lead to cracks or chips. Practice caution when consuming hard foods.
4. Regular Dental Check-Ups: Routine check-ups allow Dr. Kau to detect potential problems before they become emergencies. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent more serious complications.
5. Address Tooth Sensitivity and Minor Discomfort Early: If you notice sensitivity, discomfort, or signs of decay, don’t wait for these symptoms to worsen. Early intervention can help prevent a minor issue from becoming an emergency.

In Summary

Dental emergencies can be distressing, but prompt, expert care can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes and overall comfort. At Infinite Smile Dental in Pleasanton, CA, Dr. Kimberly G. Kau and her team are committed to providing timely, compassionate care for all dental emergencies, helping you preserve your oral health and find relief from discomfort.

If you are experiencing a dental emergency or have questions about emergency care, don’t hesitate to reach out to Infinite Smile Dental. With advanced technology, a caring approach, and a commitment to excellence, Dr. Kau is here to ensure that you receive the highest quality care when it matters most.

Need urgent dental care? Contact Infinite Smile Dental now for emergency treatment with Dr. Kimberly G. Kau at 5924 Stoneridge Dr. #209A, Pleasanton, CA, and get the prompt, professional care you need when it matters most. Are you looking for a new dentist? You can book your new patient exam & cleaning online, request an appointment via email, or call us at (925)400-9978.