Hello there, Fort Myers friends! We all know life can be unpredictable, and sometimes, that unpredictability extends to our oral health. Dental emergencies can happen at inconvenient times, like over the holidays, but being prepared and knowing when to take action can make all the difference.
In this blog, we’ll explore first aid for dental problems at home and help you understand when it’s time to reach out to Smiles of Fort Myers.

Common Dental Emergencies and What to Do:

Toothache Troubles: Ah, the dreaded toothache. If you find yourself with a persistent toothache, start by rinsing your mouth gently with warm water to remove any debris. Floss carefully to ensure nothing is stuck between your teeth, as this can sometimes be the culprit. If the pain persists, it’s time to schedule an appointment with us.
Knocked-Out Tooth: Accidents happen, and a knocked-out tooth can be a shocker. In this case, gently rinse the tooth (holding it by the crown, not the root) and gently try to place it back into its socket. If that’s not possible, keep it in a glass of milk or saliva, and get to our Fort Myers dental office immediately.
Cracked or Chipped Tooth: If you’ve cracked or chipped a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Call Smiles of Fort Myers right away so we can assess the damage and provide the necessary treatment.
Lost Filling or Crown: Losing a filling or crown can be uncomfortable. While you wait for your appointment, you can try placing the filling or crown back in its place using over the counter dental cement. However, this is just a temporary fix, so make sure to schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible. You will want to be very cautious when eating so you don’t accidentally swallow your filling or crown.
Soft Tissue Injuries: If you’ve injured your gums, tongue, or cheeks, rinse your mouth with warm, salty water and apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth to stop any bleeding. If the bleeding doesn’t stop or the injury is severe, it’s time to see your Fort Myers dentist.

Dental Emergencies that Require Immediate Professional Attention:

While some dental issues can be managed at home temporarily, there are times when you should reach out to us without delay:

Severe Pain: If you’re experiencing severe, unrelenting pain, it’s a sign that something more serious may be going on, and you should call us immediately.
Swelling or Infection: Swelling around your face or gums, along with signs of infection like pus, should not be ignored. Contact us to address these issues promptly.
Injury to Jaw: Any injury to your jaw, especially if it affects your ability to open or close your mouth, should be examined by a dental professional as soon as possible.
Lost Tooth: If you’ve lost a tooth and can’t reinsert it, or if a baby tooth is knocked out prematurely, give us a call for guidance.

At Smiles of Fort Myers, we understand that dental emergencies can be stressful, and we’re here to provide you with the care and support you need. Remember, your oral health is our priority, and we’re just a phone call away.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and know that Smiles of Fort Myers is here to keep your smiles healthy and bright!