If you are experiencing a dental issue, you may have questions about whether or not you should visit your dentist during the Covid-19 pandemic. This post is to help you differentiate whether or not you are experiencing a dental emergency and what you can do at home to ease discomfort.
After reading these guidelines, you may determine that you need to see a dentist. Please Contact Us by e-mail or call 203-239-2356 / 203-239-0678 so that your issue can be resolved as soon as possible.
Dental Emergency Symptoms
- Uncontrolled bleeding (does not stop after 20 minutes of applied pressure)
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Facial swelling extending to the eye or neck
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Toothache that is preventing sleep
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Severely broken tooth resulting in pain
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Tooth fallen out with pain
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Facial injuries resulting in dislocation or discomfort in jaw
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Pain or severe swelling in gums
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Denture adjustment for patients receiving cancer treatment
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Presence of abnormal tissue causing pain and swelling
Dental Visits You Should Reschedule For Later Date
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Regular check-ups and cleanings
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Sensitive teeth
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Loose / lost: crowns, bridges, veneers
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Bleeding gums without pain or swelling
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Chipped teeth without pain
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Cavities that aren't causing pain
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Loose teeth that aren't painful
At-home Pain Management
Minor oral pain, swelling and discomfort can be controlled by following the at-home protocols:
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Over-the-counter pain killers: ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Take according to instructions on package. Patients with fever-like symptoms or Covid-like symptoms should take acetaminophen in preference to ibuprofen.
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Soft diet (yogurt, smoothies, oatmeal, etc.)
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Warm salt water rinse
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0.2% Chlorhexadine mouth rinse
Tooth Sensitivity
For managing tooth sensitivity at-home the following products can be found online or at your nearest pharmacy:
*Use each product according to instructions on package*
All of us at Gargano Family Dentistry wish you and your family safety & good health throughout these difficult times.
For emergencies, please give us a call at our North Haven office: 203-239-2356 or 203-239-0678.