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The risk for oral accidents and injuries is always present in our life. From the time where are born until our final days, we are at risk for dental damage. This is because there are several ways that we can damage our smile even from common risks such as taking a single blow to the face. However, it is essential to always have emergency plans in place so that your time required for recovery is minimal. This includes applying pressure as needed and helping assist your smile before professional help can be given.

One of the most important things you can remember about an emergency is that if the damage is severe, visit a hospital or emergency room immediately. However, if the damage is only minimal, a visit to your dentist office may be enough to repair your smile. If you have any chipped or broken teeth, it is important to apply a piece of gauze to the area for up to 10 minutes or until bleeding stops. To help reduce swelling, apply a cold compress.

It may be possible that a blow to your face will knock out teeth. If you happen to lose any teeth, collect them and place them in a liquid immediately. This includes tooth-saving solutions such as cell growth mediums. When placed in a cell growth medium such as Save-a-Tooth, it may be possible later on to have your dentist reinsert it. The highest chance of success for teeth being reinserted after being knocked out is if you visit your dentist within one hour of the oral accident.

Prairie Dental Center wants to help treat oral emergencies that arise. To schedule an appointment at our office in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, please call us at (605) 335-8640. Drs. Nicholas and Cicmanec firmly believe a healthy smile is a happy smile!