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Accidents happen. An emergency can cause anxiety and fear. Dental emergencies are common occurrences that might be caused by sporting activities, breakage of a tooth, or cavities. Whatever the cause may be, it is important to consult a dentist right away. Dr. Dean Dietrich, founder of Pleasant Dental in Dolton, IL and an experienced Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD) has more than 24 years of caring for patients and their families, even in emergencies.

We offer our patients tips to avoid dental emergencies, such as wearing protective mouthguards during sports activities, avoiding chewing or biting down on hard substances like ice and candies, or using the teeth as any type of lever, vice, or scissor. Even with precautions, patients may still find themselves in an emergency. Knowing what to do may save a tooth or reduce discomfort.

In any dental emergency, we invite patients to contact us as soon as possible. Dr. Dietrich and our friendly team typically have appointment slots reserved for such instances. Other tips include:

• If an object becomes wedged between teeth, flossing gently may remove it. Don’t attempt to remove anything with sharp tools
• If a tooth is broken or cracked, rinse with warm water, cleaning thoroughly. A cold compress may prevent or reduce swelling
• Accidentally biting the lip, inside of the mouth, or tongue should be cared for by cleansing with water and applying a compress
• In the event of a toothache, a warm rinse and gentle flossing can clean out debris or food and soothe the discomfort
• If a permanent tooth is knocked out and can be found, it should be kept moist and clean. When possible, the tooth may be put back into the socket but the root should not be handled. If it can’t be put back into normal position, it may be kept between the gums and cheek temporarily or store in milk or an ADA approved preservation product

At Pleasant Dental, serving Dolton, Chicago, Riverdale, and surrounding IL communities, we are here to help our patients achieve and preserve their healthiest and happiest smiles, and lifelong oral health. Call us today to experience our personalized, friendly, and compassionate dental care. Dr. Dietrich welcomes new patients and meets them personally for a comprehensive consultation prior to the first exam. We may be reached at [phone].

Many people may associate the words root canal with pain or discomfort, when actually the underlying problem is what causes pain. Root canal treatment can relieve pain and save a patient’s tooth.

Damage to the nerve and pulp within a tooth can be caused by serious decay, trauma to the face or mouth, frequent dental work in the same tooth, breakage, or large fillings. When any of these conditions lead to irritation, inflammation, or infection, a root canal may be recommended.

At Pleasant Dental, serving Dolton, Riverdale, Chicago, and nearby Illinois communities, our founder and medical director, Dr. Dean Dietrich has been treating generations of families for nearly 25 years. Dr. Dietrich established this practice with the goal of helping and treating patients with affordable and gentle dental care. A native of Illinois, Dr. Dietrich understands the people in our neighborhoods and provides personalized, attentive, and compassionate treatment.

We understand that a patient might be nervous when he or she is in need of a root canal treatment. That’s why we provide as much information as possible to alleviate those apprehensions and concerns. The term root canal refers specifically to the canals extending from the pulp chamber to the tips of the roots. The canals and chamber contain the pulp, which consists of nerves, vessels, and other tissues. Once a tooth emerges from the gums, the pulp is no longer necessary to the health of the tooth.

When damage affects the pulp, bacteria and decay can lead to an infection or abscess.

A root canal treatment may be needed if a patient experiences certain symptoms, such as:

• Extreme sensitivity to temperatures
• Painful toothache when pressure, such as chewing, is applied
• Long lasting or frequent pimple located on the gums
• Inflammation, swelling, and discomfort of the gums
• A darker appearance of the tooth

During a root canal treatment, Dr. Dietrich gently removes the pulp and thoroughly cleans the interior of the tooth. The area is disinfected to remove all infection and then filled. To restore and protect the tooth from further damage, a dental crown or other restoration may be recommended.

Patients report that the root canal treatment resolves the discomfort that preceded treatment. To learn more about root canal therapy, or our complete range of family, restorative, and emergency dentistry services, contact our friendly team today at [phone].