What You Need to Know in Encino and Downey, CA
Dental emergencies can be scary and painful, but they’re also common. Our Encino and Downey emergency dentist, Dr. Behzad Abadi, is ready to help when patients need emergency dental care. Here are some important things to know about dental emergencies and how to find help in these Los Angeles communities.
What Is A Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is a situation that requires prompt attention from a dental professional. At our office, we understand that you can’t always plan when you will need our care. If you experience a dental emergency, we encourage you to contact us as soon as possible. Our team will schedule your meeting with our dentist as soon as we’re able so you can receive the care you need as fast as possible.
Common Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies can range from mild tooth pain to severe trauma to the mouth. Here are some of the most common dental emergencies and how they can be treated by Dr. Abadi in Encino and Downey, CA.
Toothache
A toothache is a common dental emergency that can be caused by many factors, including cavities, gum disease, or an abscess. If the pain is severe or accompanied by swelling or fever, it may be a dental emergency.
The treatment for a toothache depends on the cause. For example, if the toothache is caused by a cavity, the dentist may need to remove the decayed part of the tooth and fill it with a dental filling. If the toothache is caused by an abscess, the dentist may need to drain the abscess and prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection.
Broken Tooth
A broken tooth is another common dental emergency that can be caused by a fall, a sports injury, or biting down on something hard. If the break is severe or involves the tooth’s nerve, it may require emergency treatment.
The treatment for a broken tooth depends on the severity of the break. If the break is minor, the dentist may be able to smooth the tooth’s edges or apply bonding material to repair the damage. If the break is severe, the dentist may need to perform a root canal to remove the damaged nerve or extract the tooth.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is a true dental emergency that requires immediate attention. If the tooth is handled carefully and re-implanted within 30 minutes, it may be possible to save it.
If a tooth is knocked out, the first step is to rinse it gently with water and place it back into the socket, holding it in place with a clean cloth or tissue. If it isn’t possible to re-implant the tooth, the patient should keep it moist by placing it in a container of milk or saliva until they can see a dentist. If the tooth can’t be saved, the dentist may be able to replace it with a dental implant.
Gum Abscess
A gum abscess is a pocket of pus that forms in the gum tissue. It can be caused by a bacterial infection, gum disease, or trauma to the mouth. If left untreated, a gum abscess can lead to serious health problems.
The treatment for a gum abscess involves draining the pus and treating the infection. The dentist may need to perform a root canal or extract the affected tooth. They may also prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection and prevent it from spreading.
When to Seek Emergency Dental Care
It’s essential to know when to seek emergency dental care in Encino and Downey, CA. Some signs that you need immediate attention include:
- Severe and persistent tooth pain that isn’t relieved by over-the-counter painkillers
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Swelling in the gums, face, or neck
- A loose, partially dislodged, or knocked-out tooth
- A broken or cracked tooth that exposes the nerve
- A dental abscess or infection
- Damage to the soft tissues of the mouth, including the tongue, cheeks, lips, and gums
- A lost dental restoration, such as a filling or crown
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek emergency dental care right away. Don’t wait until the next available appointment; time is of the essence in many dental emergencies.
If you have experienced trauma to the head or neck, we recommend that you visit the emergency room or your general physician before coming to the dentist. Damage of this kind often requires medical intervention to prevent more serious issues such as paralysis.
Finding Emergency Dental Care in Encino and Downey, CA
When searching for emergency dental care in Encino or Downey, it’s important to find an experienced and compassionate provider. Look for an emergency dentist who’s willing to explain your options and work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs.
Dr. Abadi and our dental team will provide quick, efficient treatments when you require emergency dental care. If you experience oral trauma, or severe dental pain, or have chipped/lost a tooth, then call our Encino office at (818) 990-5900 or our Downey office at (562) 862-8128 as soon as possible. That way, you can quickly receive the necessary treatments. Call our dentist today if you require emergency dental care in Encino and Downey, CA.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
Of course, the best way to deal with dental emergencies is to prevent them from happening in the first place. You may not be able to prevent every dental emergency, but taking some simple steps can be truly beneficial in keeping your smile safe. Here are some tips for keeping your teeth healthy and avoiding dental emergencies as often as possible:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day and floss once a day to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard can protect your teeth from injury.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Foods like hard candy and popcorn kernels can damage teeth and cause dental emergencies.
- Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools: Opening bottles or tearing packaging with your teeth can cause chips, cracks, or even a knocked-out tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I have a dental emergency outside of business hours?
If you have a dental emergency outside of business hours, call our office and leave a message. Our dentist will return your call as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. If your emergency is serious, go to the emergency room in the meantime. A doctor can help you keep damage to a minimum until you can see your dentist.
How much does emergency dental care cost in Encino and Downey, CA?
The cost of emergency dental care in Encino and Downey, CA, depends on the type of treatment you require. Your dentist will discuss the cost of treatment with you before starting any procedures. Your insurance may also cover some of the costs, so be sure to contact them as soon as you can.
Can I walk in for emergency dental care without an appointment?
We encourage patients to call their dentist’s office before coming in for emergency dental care. This allows the dentist and their team to prepare for your visit and provide the necessary treatments as soon as possible.
Act Fast and Save Your Smile!
If you require emergency dental care, call our Encino office at (818) 990-5900 or our Downey office at (562) 862-8128 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Behzad Abadi. Our experienced and compassionate team is here to provide you with the prompt and effective care you need to relieve your pain and get your smile back to normal.
Don’t hesitate to contact us in case of a dental emergency. Dr. Abadi proudly offers his years of expertise to patients in Encino and Downey, CA, and surrounding areas like Calabasas, North Hollywood, Lakewood, Buena Parks, and East Los Angeles, CA.
