Dental emergencies can happen any time in many different ways. So when an accident or unforeseen event occurs, know that you can call Dr. Joseph Hendrick, Jr. in Shelby, NC anytime. You might not need to see him immediately, but call him and let him help you make that decision.

Meanwhile, here are some answers to some frequently asked questions about emergency dental treatment.

Q - What constitutes a dental emergency?

A – The term covers a variety of situations, but generally speaking, an emergency is a serious and usually unforeseen circumstance – sudden pain from an acute condition or traumatic injury. A severe sudden onset toothache that won’t go away may require an emergency root canal, for example.

Q – Is emergency dental treatment expensive?

A – As in all cases, it depends on the situation, but generally, you won’t be charged significantly more for after-hours treatment.

Q – I just cracked a tooth. What do I do?

A – First, rinse your mouth out with warm water to cleanse the area. You might want to place a cold compress on the area to prevent swelling. Then call your Shelby dentist immediately.

Q – What can I do to prevent cracking or losing a tooth?

A – If you play sports or engage in somewhat risky recreational activities, always wear a mouth guard – accidents can happen at any time and it pays to be prepared. You should also avoid chewing on such things as popcorn kernels, hard candy or ice cubes.

Q – What do I do if I experience an injury that knocks out a tooth?

A – The American Dental Association recommends that you keep that tooth moist at all times. If possible, try to place it back in its socket without touching the root. Call Dr. Hendrick immediately.

Q- Ouch! I just bit my tongue – do I need stitches?

A – Probably not. First, clean the injured area with cold water and apply a cold compress. If that doesn’t help, call your doctor.

If you are seeking the services of a caring, qualified dentist in Shelby, NC, or if you have a dental emergency, contact Dr. Hendrick at (704) 484-0077 or (704) 482-8336.