A dental emergency can be more than a lost tooth, though this is the urgent situation most people think of when imagining why prompt dental attention could be needed. Urgent situations may also include tooth or gum tissue injury or a persistent, severe toothache. Regardless of the type of dental situation, emergencies can lead to difficulty speaking, eating, or even getting through the day.
The American Dental Association encourages the prevention of dental emergencies through careful use of teeth, which are intended for chewing, not use as tools. Though we can protect our teeth by avoiding biting or chewing on hard objects or trying to open packages of any sort with our teeth, the possibility of unexpected dental problems remains.
Eastland Dental Center is equipped to handle dental emergencies with great care and prompt action. If you find yourself in a situation where dental care is needed immediately, or you are unsure if your dental problem should be treated immediately, we invite you to contact our office. Our team is available to provide dental care when you most need it, allowing you to return to your normal activities as soon as possible.
Damage to a tooth or teeth should be assessed by your dentist as soon as possible. This damage, such as a broken tooth or lost restoration, may be visible or felt. Damage may also present as a persistent, worsening toothache. Tooth pain is, in fact, one of the leading reasons for urgent dental care in our country. Damage may be initially addressed by rinsing the mouth with lukewarm water. Cold compresses may be placed against the cheek to ease discomfort until you can be seen at Eastland Dental Center.
A tooth that has become dislodged or knocked out may be saved if treated immediately. A knocked-out tooth should be rinsed carefully, avoiding touching the root. Dislodged teeth should not be brushed or scrubbed in any way, as damage to the root dramatically minimizes the potential for successful reimplantation into the socket.
Injuries to soft tissues may require dental or medical attention. Drs. Mike and Marisa Milligan can help you determine the best way to handle this type of dental emergency. Initial treatment of soft tissue damage may include rinsing the mouth with gentle swishing and using salt water to minimize swelling. Bleeding may be handled by placing a moist tea bag or moist gauze pad against the area and applying gentle pressure. Cold compresses may diminish discomfort until your dentist or physician can make necessary repairs.
A dental emergency can certainly catch you off guard. Drs. Mike and Marisa Milligan and the experienced staff at Eastland Dental Center can help you through your dental problem with precise care, getting you back to regular activities as soon as possible. Contact our office at (309) 663-4711 in Bloomington to schedule your dental check-up and diminish your risk of dental emergencies.
Eastland Dental Center is owned and operated by the father-daughter duo, Dr. Mike Milligan and Dr. Marisa Milligan.
Dr. Mike completed his doctor of dental medicine degree from Southern Illinois University in 1978. Dr. Marisa completed her doctor of dental medicine degree from Midwestern University in 2015. Both doctors have logged hundreds of hours of continuing education to stay on top of the latest technologies in dentistry as well as the most current research on the oral-systemic, mouth-body connection to benefit their patients. Dr. Mike and Dr. Marisa are active members and in excellent standing with the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Association, Chicago Dental Society, McLean County Dental Association, American Academy of Oral Systemic Health, and numerous other societies.
Both doctors are avid golfers and have won several national golf tournaments over the years. They are the only father-daughter team in the state to have won the Illinois State Amateur Golf Championship. Dr. Mike in 1974 and Dr. Marisa in 2005.
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