Universal precautions/Pain Emergencies

Reducing the chances of spreading infectious diseases is a "high priority" in the dental profession. Our office uses comprehensive infection control procedures which comply with the "universal precautions" set and regulated by government and professional agencies.
Our staff is trained on how infectious diseases are transmitted, techniques of disease prevention, and the use of control procedures. We routinely monitor our infection control policies and update training as necessary.

Many of our control procedures are obvious: gloved hands, protective masks and eye wear, and surgical gowns for certain procedures. What may not be as obvious is our sterilization of all instruments, disinfection of all surfaces, and disposal of contaminated waste into special containers which are then discarded according to government regulations. And for our protection as well as yours, we have all received hepatitis B vaccine and boosters. Your health and well-being are of great concern to us. We strive to serve you in a safe, health-oriented environment.

PAINFUL EMERGENCIES

Knocked out tooth: Pick it up carefully by the top not by the roots. Gently rinse off the tooth and place it back in the socket.  If you are worried about swallowing the tooth, place it in a glass of milk, or water or in a damp towel, and try to get to the dentist within thirty minutes.

Broken, Chipped or loose tooth: Clean the injured area with warm water and use a cold compress to keep swelling down.  Save any pieces of a broken tooth as fragments can often be bonded back onto the injured tooth.

Abscess: This is caused by an infection in either your gum or tooth.  Often symptoms will include pain, swelling, and a discharge.  Ignoring an Abscess can begin to affect the surrounding teeth if not treated in a hurry, you shouldn't wait.  Take Advil, Ibuprofen, or acetaminophen for pain and get the next appointment possible.

Toothache:  Don't ignore a toothache, as it can become very painful and may mean you have a cavity, and/or an Abscess. Take a pain reliever, as necessary, however you should never crush an aspirin and rinse with it, as it may burn your gum.  Avoid extremely hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks and contact your dentist for a check.  Don't wait it is probably an easy fix.

Lost filling: You will have to have it replaced quickly, as the hole in your tooth make a great food trap and bacteria will begin to build up causing a much bigger problem.  Act fast and make an appointment. It is a quick procedure and will save you a lot of time and pain down the road.