Patients

Emergencies

Our rule of thumb for dental emergencies is this: if you think it's an emergency, give us a call and Dr. Mason will evaluate your symptoms and discuss treatment options with you. If your emergency arises after office hours, leave a message on our voicemail, and we'll respond as quickly as possible. In the meantime, here's what to do until you get to our office.

If you are in need of immediate attention, do not hesitate to go to the emergency room.

Broken Fillings: Save the filling so we can have a look at it. Rinse your mouth gently with lukewarm water to remove debris - dissolved table salt or baking soda is soothing. If the tooth is sensitive, protect it with dental wax (we supply it) or, in a pinch, sugarless gum.

Lost Crown: Displaced crowns can sometimes be reused: hang onto it. Try to affix the crown with denture adhesive or, if it won't stick, use dental wax to keep the tooth away from air.

Knocked-Out Tooth: Don't panic. If we can treat you within about an hour, chances are we can reseat the tooth for good. Don't touch the tooth root - this could damage delicate tissues. Gently replace the tooth where it belongs if you can, or keep it moist in milk.

Bent Orthodontic Appliances: With care, move a sprung wire or clasp away from soft tissue and cover with dental wax. Get it to us right away.

Damaged Bridges, Dentures, Partials: Do not risk home repairs. Glue can destroy composition materials and cause tissue erosion. Keep all the pieces, even the smallest, and call us.

Toothache: They are common and nasty. Toothache tells you something is wrong and that it needs attention. Rinse mouth with warm water and try to floss away any food particles. Don't lodge aspirin near the tooth - it will irritate, even ulcerate, gum tissue. Ice packs or a numbing agent may make you more comfortable while you're scheduling an appointment. Toothaches may "go away," but the source of the pain won't.

Lacerations or Jaw Damage: These require immediate treatment at a hospital facility or an oral surgeon's office. Take such injuries seriously. Delay may result in further damage.

Office Hours

Mon-Weds: 8 AM to 5 PM
Thurs: 12 PM to 7 PM