Immediate Care When You Need It Most

Dental emergencies can arise unexpectedly and may include severe tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth or injuries to your gums. In such situations, seeking immediate treatment is crucial for several reasons.

First, receiving prompt care can alleviate pain and discomfort. Second, severe tooth pain can mean you have an infection or another serious problem. The quicker you get treatment, the better your chances are of avoiding complications. If you wait too long, the infection can spread, and you might need more invasive procedures later.

Being aware of common dental problems helps you respond quickly to get the care you or your family need to fix the issue and avoid complications. Let’s look at some of the most common dental emergencies that require immediate attention.

Common Dental Emergencies That Require Immediate Attention

1. Severe Tooth Pain or Abscess

• Persistent or throbbing tooth pain could indicate an infection or deep cavity.
• Emergency treatment can relieve pain and prevent the infection from spreading.

2. Knocked-Out Tooth

• If a tooth gets knocked out from an injury, act quickly. Immediate care is very important.
• Keep the tooth moist (in milk or saliva) and seek emergency care immediately to increase the chances of saving it.

3. Broken or Cracked Tooth

• Fractured teeth can cause sharp pain and sensitivity.
• Depending on the severity, a filling, crown or extraction may be needed.

4. Lost or Loose Dental Restorations (Fillings, Crowns, Bridges)

• A missing filling or crown leaves the tooth vulnerable to damage.
• Prompt care ensures that the tooth is protected and prevents further issues.

5. Swollen or Bleeding Gums

• Uncontrolled bleeding or swelling in the gums may indicate gum disease or an infection.
• Getting treatment right away can lower the chance of long-term damage.

Knowing where to seek urgent dental care is crucial, especially if you are dealing with severe tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth or a broken restoration. If you encounter a dental emergency, be sure to contact our office as soon as possible. We are here to help you manage these urgent situations effectively, ensuring your comfort and smile.

What to Expect During an Emergency Dental Visit

• Same-day dental appointments allow for immediate diagnosis and treatment.
• The affected tooth or gums will be examined, and an X-ray will be taken if needed.
• Depending on the severity of the issue, treatment options may include pain relief, fillings, root canals or extractions. Dental anesthesia or sedation may be used to keep you comfortable.

Preventing Dental Emergencies

• Maintain regular dental checkups to catch potential issues early.
• Wear a mouthguard to protect teeth from sports injuries or teeth grinding.
• Avoid chewing hard foods that can crack or break teeth.

Emergency Dental Care at Lawton Dental and Implants

At Lawton Dental and Implants, we understand that dental emergencies are stressful. That’s why we offer same-day emergency dental appointments to provide quick relief and expert care. Contact us immediately if you or a loved one is experiencing a dental emergency.

A beautiful smile can boost confidence, enhance first impressions and even improve overall oral health. If you have concerns about stained, chipped or misaligned teeth, cosmetic dentistry offers a range of treatments to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

What Is a Smile Makeover?

A smile makeover is a custom plan that combines different cosmetic dentistry treatments to enhance the look of your teeth and gums. If you want whiter, straighter or more even teeth, a dentist will evaluate your needs and suggest the best options for you.

At Lawton Dental and Implants, we specialize in customized smile makeovers designed to fit your unique needs. Here’s a look at the best cosmetic dentistry options available.

Porcelain Veneers vs. Composite Veneers

Dental veneers are a popular way to improve smiles by covering stains, gaps, chips and crooked teeth. There are two main types of veneers:

Porcelain Veneers

• Thin, custom-made shells that bond to the front of the teeth.
• Highly durable and stain-resistant.
• Ideal for patients looking for a long-lasting, natural-looking transformation.

Composite Veneers

• Made from tooth-colored composite resin.
• More affordable than porcelain but may not last as long.
• A great option for minor cosmetic concerns with less tooth preparation.

Teeth Whitening for a Brighter Smile

There are generally two main methods for teeth whitening: in-office treatments and at-home options.

• In-Office Whitening: This is a procedure done in our dental office. It typically takes about an hour and uses stronger whitening agents than those available over the counter. The results are immediate so that you can leave with a noticeably brighter smile. Our team takes care to protect your gums and mouth during the procedure to ensure your comfort and safety.
• At-Home Whitening Kits: If you prefer to whiten your teeth at your own pace, we offer custom take-home kits. These include trays made just for you and a professional-grade whitening gel. You wear the trays for a specific duration each day, and over a few weeks, your teeth will gradually become brighter.

It’s important to note that professional whitening treatments are generally more effective than store-bought products. They can provide more consistent results and are designed to minimize sensitivity, which can sometimes occur with whitening.

Teeth whitening can be a great confidence booster and significantly enhance your overall appearance.

Other Cosmetic Dentistry Options

• Dental Bonding – A quick and cost-effective way to fix small chips, gaps and discoloration with tooth-colored resin.
• Invisalign^® Clear Aligners – A discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces for straightening teeth.
• Gum Contouring – Reshapes the gumline to improve symmetry and reduce excess gum tissue for a balanced smile. 

How to Choose the Best Treatment for Your Smile

The right cosmetic dentistry treatment depends on several factors, including:

• The condition of your teeth and gums – Healthy teeth and gums are necessary before starting cosmetic treatments.
• Your aesthetic goals – Do you want a complete transformation or minor enhancements?
• Your budget and lifestyle – Veneers and Invisalign^® are long-term investments, while bonding and whitening provide more immediate results.

A consultation with a cosmetic dentist will help determine the best approach for your unique smile goals.

Start Your Smile Makeover at Lawton Dental and Implants

We believe every patient deserves a beautiful, confident smile at Lawton Dental and Implants in Lawton, OK. Whether you’re interested in dental veneers, professional teeth whitening or another cosmetic dentistry option, our team is here to help.

Ready to transform your smile? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a brighter, more confident you!

Understanding the Need for Tooth Extraction

Recognizing the signs that indicate a need for tooth extraction is not just essential; it’s empowering. It’s a key step in maintaining your overall oral health. While dentists always try to save natural teeth whenever possible, certain conditions make removal the best option. Whether due to damage, infection or overcrowding, being aware of these signs gives you the knowledge to take control of your oral health.

Signs You May Need a Tooth Extraction

1. Severe Tooth Decay or Infection

• If a tooth has a lot of decay that reaches the pulp, the inner part of the tooth, it can lead to a painful infection.
• Extraction is the best solution to prevent the infection from spreading when a root canal is no longer an option.

2. Advanced Gum Disease (Periodontitis)

• When gum disease becomes severe, it weakens the bone and tissue supporting the teeth.
• Extraction may be necessary to preserve oral health if teeth become loose due to bone loss.

3. Impacted Wisdom Teeth

• Wisdom teeth that do not fully emerge or grow at an angle can cause pain, swelling and infections. Learn more about wisdom teeth extractions.
• Removing impacted teeth can prevent complications such as shifting teeth and gum infections.

4. Overcrowding or Orthodontic Reasons

• If there is not enough space in the mouth, removing one or more teeth can help straighten the remaining teeth.
• Orthodontists may recommend extractions before starting braces or Invisalign^® treatment.

5. Trauma or Broken Teeth

• Teeth that are severely fractured due to injury may not be repairable with fillings or crowns.
• In these cases, the best course of action may be extraction followed by a restorative option like a dental implant.

If you have experienced a traumatic mouth or tooth injury, please contact a dentist immediately, as it may be a dental emergency.

What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction

• Your teeth will be examined, and an X-ray may be taken so your dentist can determine the best treatment.
• Local anesthesia or oral sedation will keep you comfortable during the procedure.
• The tooth is carefully loosened and removed with specialized dental tools.

Post-Extraction Care and Recovery

• Follow all post-operative instructions, including keeping the extraction site clean.
• Avoid hard or sticky foods for a few days to prevent complications.
• If you experience prolonged pain, swelling or signs of infection, contact your dentist immediately.

Pain-Free Extractions at Lawton Dental and Implants

At Lawton Dental and Implants, we prioritize patient comfort with pain-free tooth extraction options. Our team uses advanced techniques to ensure a smooth experience and speedy recovery. If you are experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, schedule an appointment to discuss the best treatment options for your oral health.