Accidents and severe toothaches are the primary reasons Van Nuys patients seek emergency dental services. Toothaches may stem from infections, injuries, or underlying dental problems. If you’re experiencing dental pain, contact us right away. We’ll schedule you as quickly as possible to diagnose the issue and provide relief.
Cracked or knocked-out teeth represent some of the most serious dental emergencies. When a tooth is completely knocked out, time is critical for successful reimplantation. Before reaching our Van Nuys office, you can improve the chances of saving your tooth by gently repositioning it in the socket (avoid touching the root), tucking it between your cheek and gum, storing it in milk, or using an ADA-approved preservation kit. For life-threatening emergencies, proceed directly to the emergency room.
Protecting Van Nuys Families from Dental Emergencies
Taking preventive measures can help Van Nuys residents avoid many dental emergencies. Our primary recommendation is to be mindful of how you treat your teeth. Remember, your permanent teeth must last a lifetime! Breaking habits such as biting your nails or chewing on pens and other non-food items can significantly reduce your risk of dental problems.
Routine dental examinations serve as your best defense against emergency situations. When Van Nuys patients visit our office twice yearly for professional cleanings and comprehensive exams, we can detect issues like tooth decay, fractures, or periodontal disease early on. This proactive approach enables us to treat minor concerns before they develop into urgent problems requiring immediate attention. Consistent preventive care can help you avoid many dental emergencies altogether.
Good daily oral care habits are essential for Van Nuys families wanting to minimize emergency dental visits. Brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, and rinsing with antiseptic mouthwash can dramatically lower your chances of developing infections, abscesses, and cavities that lead to emergencies. For parents, instilling proper dental hygiene practices in your children early creates a foundation for lifelong oral health. Don’t delay addressing dental concerns—prompt treatment of small issues prevents them from becoming urgent problems that interfere with your Van Nuys family’s schedule.
What to do in a Dental Emergency
We welcome new patients experiencing dental emergencies at our Van Nuys location. Don’t hesitate to reach out immediately when you need urgent dental care.
When facing a dental emergency in Van Nuys, acting quickly and correctly can preserve your tooth and reduce complications. Follow these guidelines for common urgent situations:
- Broken or Chipped Tooth: Collect any tooth fragments, cleanse your mouth with warm water, and place gauze on bleeding spots for approximately 10 minutes. Apply a cold compress externally to control swelling and call our Van Nuys practice immediately.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Handle the tooth by its crown only, gently rinse if needed, and attempt to place it back in the socket. If unsuccessful, store it in milk or saliva and reach our office within 30 minutes for optimal results.
- Persistent Toothache: Use warm salt water to rinse thoroughly, floss carefully to dislodge any debris, and take appropriate pain relievers. Place a cold compress on your face to ease swelling and contact us promptly.
- Missing Crown or Filling: If possible, reposition the crown using dental cement or toothpaste temporarily. Avoid chewing on the affected side and schedule an appointment at our Van Nuys dental office right away.
- Injuries to Gums, Lips, or Tongue: Rinse using a mild salt water solution, apply clean gauze with pressure, and use ice to reduce swelling. Seek emergency medical care if bleeding continues beyond 15 minutes, then visit us for follow-up treatment.