If you chip or crack a tooth, or you develop an oral abscess, or a tooth was knocked loose or came out, emergency dentistry can provide prompt attention, limiting pain and your risk of other, more serious oral health problems. At his practice in Arcadia, California, cosmetic dentist Hanfu Lee, DDS, has special training in emergency dentistry, ensuring safe, effective treatment for people of all ages. Dr Lee was trained at a trauma hospital, and he has treated trauma from baseball and other sports and from automobile accidents. If you or a loved one experiences a dental emergency, call the office to speak with a friendly team member, or simply walk-in during normal business hours. Nonemergency appointments can be booked online.
Emergency dentistry provides diagnosis and treatment of dental problems that require immediate care. If you or a loved one experiences a dental emergency, it’s important to stay calm and act as quickly as possible. Making it to Hanfu Lee, DDS, within half an hour of your injury could mean the difference between losing a tooth or requiring oral surgery.
Emergency dentistry treats a wide range of common oral health problems. Under the umbrella of emergency dentistry, Dr. Lee regularly diagnoses and cares for:
If you have a loose permanent tooth or you knock out a permanent tooth, you should also seek emergency dentistry treatment right away.
If you lose a permanent tooth as a result of a sports-related injury or automobile accident, pick up the tooth by its crown, and carefully rinse it off in cool tap water. Once you wash the debris away, try putting the tooth back in its empty socket. If the tooth is wobbly or doesn’t stay in place, you can put it in a glass of milk. Next, call Dr. Lee and let him know what happened. He can provide you with tips and insights to limit pain and bleeding on your way over.
If you want to lower your risk of needing emergency dentistry, it’s important you take good care of your teeth. Dr. Lee recommends brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist at least every six months for a professional cleaning and exam. You should also take steps to prevent tooth damage. For example, if you play contact sports or enjoy mountain biking, always wear a mouthguard. If you clench your jaws or grind your teeth during sleep, invest in a nightguard.
You can also lower your risk of a dental emergency by avoiding bad habits. Dr. Lee recommends you quit using tobacco products, avoid biting your fingernails, and stop chewing on ice cubes, popcorn kernels, and hard candy. Lifestyle adjustments like these can help preserve your teeth for years to come.
If you or a family member requires emergency dentistry, call the office of Hanfu Lee, DDS, or walk-in during normal business hours.
