Emergency Dental Care
in Keene & Joshua, TX

Damage to teeth and gums can’t be ignored. It’s always important to act quickly if something is wrong, but some dental issues are more pressing than others. How can you know the difference between a dental problem that needs to be solved soon and a problem that needs to be solved now?

We never want our patients in Keene and Joshua, TX to put off a dental procedure when it could lead to lasting harm, so we’ve compiled a list of important warning signs that mean you should get your teeth checked out as soon as possible. After all, you’ve only got so many teeth — it’s best to keep them all in good shape.

Prioritize Your Oral Health: Recognizing Signs of Dental Emergencies

1. Broken or missing teeth

• Obvious Damage: Cracked, chipped, or knocked-out teeth constitute dental emergencies.
• Immediate Steps: Rinse your mouth with warm water and contact us for an appointment. For a dislodged tooth, try placing it back gently (avoiding the root) or storing it in your mouth for our examination.

2. Dental abscesses

• Infection Alert: Signs like shiny, swollen gums, fever, or radiating pain suggest an abscess, even if unseen.
• Urgent Visit Needed: See us promptly, but avoid cold drinks until your appointment. Gentle cleaning with a soft toothbrush might ease discomfort.

3. Lost filling or crown

• Missing Restoration: A lost crown or filling requires action. Preserve it if possible – we might be able to reuse it.
• Temporary Care: Rinse the area with warm salt water and maintain gentle brushing until your Keene or Joshua dental office visit.

4. Significant pain or swelling in the teeth, gums or jaw

• Pain is a Red Flag: Persistent pain or swelling in your teeth, gums, or jaw is never normal. It could indicate major damage or infection.
• Seek Professional Advice: Contact us to determine if an immediate appointment is necessary. Ignoring these signs can lead to lasting damage, tooth loss, or even medical complications.

We want your tooth pain or mouth pain to stop.

First and foremost, if you are in pain, we want to help you get some relief. Then we can address any underlying causes to solve the problem using dental best practices. If you believe you’re experiencing a dental emergency, give Old Betsy Dental of Keene a call at (817) 641-2272 or Old Betsy Dental of Joshua a call at (817) 295-4500 as soon as possible. We’ll get you an appointment in the near future, so you can go back to your life and leave tooth pain behind.

Dental Veneers at Old Betsy Dental

Dental veneers are a very popular cosmetic dental procedure in Keene and Joshua, TX. For those who wish to improve the appearance of their smile, but do not have teeth that are in serious condition, dental veneers may be an excellent option.

Even though veneer treatment has proved to be a highly effective, safe and minimally invasive treatment, patients are constantly asking their dentists about the advantages and disadvantages of dental veneers. 

Disadvantages of Veneers

• Irreversible Commitment: Once veneers are placed, the shaved enamel cannot be restored. Carefully consider your long-term vision for your smile before committing to this permanent change.
• Potential for Sensitivity: Removing enamel can increase tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. While temporary, this factor is worth discussing with your dentist to manage expectations.
• Not for Severely Compromised Teeth: Veneers are not ideal for teeth with extensive decay or structural weaknesses. Crowns may be a more suitable option for such cases.
• Higher Initial Cost: Compared to some other cosmetic procedures, veneers can have a higher initial cost. However, their long-term durability and transformative impact should be factored into the equation.

Advantages of Veneers

• Transform Your Smile: Veneers are masters of disguise, concealing discoloration, chips, cracks, misalignment, and gaps. Imagine revealing a radiant, confident smile you’ve always dreamt of.
• Minimally Invasive Procedure: Unlike crowns, which require significant tooth reduction, veneers necessitate minimal enamel removal. This preserves your natural tooth structure and promotes long-term oral health.
• Natural-Looking Aesthetics: Crafted from high-quality porcelain, veneers mimic the translucence and texture of natural teeth, seamlessly blending into your existing smile for a stunningly natural appearance.
• Versatility Beyond Whitening: While whitening offers surface-level improvements, veneers address deeper concerns like misalignment and structural imperfections, providing a comprehensive smile makeover.
• Durability You Can Trust: With proper care, dental veneers can last for many years, offering a long-term investment in your smile’s beauty and functionality.

Whether you’re considering dental veneers in Keene or Joshua, TX, our experienced team at Old Betsy Dental is here to guide you through every step. We provide comprehensive consultations, personalized treatment plans, and exceptional care to ensure a comfortable and rewarding experience. Old Betsy Dental can help you decide if dental veneers are right for you. Contact either of our locations, Keene or Joshua,  and we’ll set up an appointment to talk through the advantages and disadvantages. 

Wisdom tooth removal is a common dental procedure that millions of people undergo each year. Although the procedure itself is relatively straightforward, the recovery process can be lengthy and challenging if proper aftercare steps are not followed. At Old Betsy Dental in Joshua and Keene, TX, we recommend following the aftercare tips listed below to help you heal comfortably and quickly after your wisdom tooth removal procedure.

Rest and Take It Easy

It’s essential to rest and avoid any strenuous activities after your procedure for at least the first 24-48 hours. Resting allows your body to recover more quickly. Physical exertion can also cause the blood clot that forms over the surgical site to dislodge, which can lead to dry socket.

Apply Ice Packs

After wisdom tooth removal, swelling is common and applying ice packs can help reduce inflammation. Wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply it to your cheek for 10 -15 minute intervals. Do not place the ice pack directly onto your skin. Repeat this every few hours for the first few hours after surgery or as needed.

Use Gauze to Control Bleeding

It is normal to experience bleeding after wisdom tooth removal. Bite down gently on a piece of gauze for 30-45 minutes to control bleeding. If the bleeding persists, contact us immediately.

Take Prescribed Medications

You may likely be prescribed pain relievers and/or antibiotics after your surgery. Take these medications as prescribed, and do not exceed the recommended dosage. Pain relievers can help alleviate discomfort, while antibiotics can help prevent infection.

Follow a Soft Foods Diet

After your wisdom tooth extraction, stick to soft, easy-to-eat foods that do not require excessive chewing. Foods like smoothies, soup, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and applesauce are ideal. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that can irritate the surgical site and cause pain.

Keep Your Mouth Clean

While you should avoid brushing the surgical site, it’s essential to keep your mouth clean after your wisdom tooth extraction. Rinse your mouth gently with warm saltwater several times a day to help prevent infection and promote healing.

Proper aftercare is critical for a smooth and speedy recovery after wisdom tooth removal. Following these essential aftercare tips can help ensure that you heal comfortably and successfully after your surgery. If you have any concerns or questions during the recovery process, be sure to contact us.

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