At Mathew DDS in Smithtown, NY, we understand that dental emergencies can be both painful and stressful. Our team is dedicated to providing prompt, professional, and compassionate care to address your urgent dental needs. Whether you're experiencing severe tooth pain, a broken tooth, or any other dental emergency, we're here to help you get back to feeling your best as quickly as possible.
Dr. Bilu Mathew is originally from Floral Park, New York. He attended Binghamton University to receive his Bachelor’s Degree in Biology. He then went on to the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine to receive his DDS Degree. He received an award from the Pierre Fauchard Academy to recognize his achievements in Dentistry and Service.
Dr. Julie Mathew received her dental degree, Doctor of Dental Surgery, from SUNY at Buffalo, School of Dental Medicine, with a minor in oral diagnostic science. She decided to become a dentist after working for a female oral surgeon and interning for a female general dentist during her college years at SUNY at Binghamton.
Dr. Mathew will start by examining your teeth and learning more about what goals you have for your smile. Options will then be presented, and you can decide the route you want to take. Most of the time, patients in the local area will use a combination of procedures in order to achieve the results they have in mind.
A severe toothache can be a sign of a serious underlying issue such as an infection, decay, or abscess. Toothaches often indicate problems that won't resolve on their own and require professional treatment. Intense, persistent pain can disrupt your daily activities and affect your quality of life. If you experience a toothache that doesn't go away with over-the-counter pain relief or worsens over time, it's essential to seek immediate dental care. An emergency dentist can diagnose the cause of the pain, provide the necessary treatment, and prevent further complications such as spreading infection or tooth loss.
Accidents happen, and when they do, a broken or chipped tooth can cause significant pain and sensitivity. Whether it's due to a sports injury, a fall, or biting down on something hard, a damaged tooth should be treated promptly. Broken or chipped teeth can expose the inner layers of the tooth, leading to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of infection. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent further damage and restore the tooth's structure and function. An emergency dentist can repair the tooth with bonding, a crown, or other restorative procedures, ensuring your smile remains intact and functional.
A knocked-out tooth requires urgent care to increase the chances of saving it. Immediate action can sometimes allow the tooth to be reinserted and preserved. If a tooth is knocked out, the first few minutes are critical. Handle the tooth by the crown (the top part) and avoid touching the root. Rinse it gently with water if it's dirty, but do not scrub or remove any attached tissue. Place the tooth in a container of milk or saline solution and get to the dentist immediately. Reimplantation is often successful if the tooth is returned to its socket within an hour of being knocked out.
Losing a filling or crown can expose the underlying tooth to damage and decay. Fillings and crowns are used to protect weakened teeth, and their loss can leave the tooth vulnerable. Without the protection provided by the filling or crown, the tooth can become sensitive to temperature changes and more susceptible to decay and infection. Seeking prompt dental care will help protect the tooth and restore its integrity. An emergency dentist can replace the lost filling or crown, preventing further damage and restoring the tooth's function and appearance.
Dental abscesses or infections can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Symptoms of an abscess include severe pain, swelling, fever, and a bad taste in the mouth. An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, and it can occur at the root of a tooth or in the gums. Immediate dental care is necessary to address the infection and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body. An emergency dentist can drain the abscess, prescribe antibiotics, and provide treatment to eliminate the source of the infection, ensuring your overall health and safety.
Remaining calm during a dental emergency will help you think clearly and take appropriate action. Assess the situation to determine the severity of the issue and the best course of action. Determine if there is severe pain, bleeding, or swelling, and consider whether the tooth can be preserved or if immediate intervention is required. Staying calm will help you communicate more effectively with your dentist and follow their instructions accurately.
Call our office as soon as possible. We prioritize emergency cases and will do our best to see you promptly. Explain your symptoms and follow any advice given by our team while you wait for your appointment. Our experienced staff can provide guidance over the phone, helping you manage the situation until you can receive professional care. Having our contact information readily available will ensure you can reach us quickly in case of an emergency.
Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help manage pain. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can also reduce swelling and numb the pain. Place the compress on the outside of your cheek for 10-20 minutes at a time. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums or teeth as it can cause irritation or burns. Managing pain and swelling effectively can provide temporary relief until you can see the dentist.
If a tooth has been knocked out, handle it carefully by the crown (the top part), and avoid touching the root. Rinse it gently with water if it's dirty, but do not scrub or remove any attached tissue. Place the tooth in a container of milk or saline solution and bring it with you to the dentist immediately. Reimplantation is often successful if the tooth is returned to its socket within an hour of being knocked out. If milk or saline is not available, you can also place the tooth in your mouth between your cheek and gum to keep it moist.
If you have a broken or chipped tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Save any broken pieces and bring them to your appointment. Apply gauze to any bleeding areas and a cold compress to reduce swelling. Avoid chewing with the broken tooth and stick to soft foods until you can see the dentist. Protecting the broken tooth and any fragments will help the dentist repair the damage more effectively.
Regular dental visits allow us to catch potential issues early before they become emergencies. Professional cleanings and exams help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Brushing and flossing daily is essential for preventing cavities and gum disease, which can lead to dental emergencies. Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush for the best results.
If you play sports or engage in activities that could result in dental injury, wearing a mouthguard is crucial. Mouthguards help protect your teeth from impact and reduce the risk of injury.
Chewing on hard foods like ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candies can crack or chip your teeth. Similarly, avoid using your teeth to open packages or bite non-food items.
Don’t ignore dental problems, no matter how minor they seem. Small issues can escalate into emergencies if left untreated. Contact us at the first sign of a problem to avoid more significant complications.
Our team of dental professionals is highly trained and experienced in handling dental emergencies. We are committed to providing compassionate care and ensuring your comfort throughout your visit.
We use the latest dental technology to diagnose and treat emergencies quickly and effectively. Our advanced equipment allows for precise and efficient care, minimizing your discomfort and downtime.
At Mathew DDS, your well-being is our top priority. We take the time to listen to your concerns, explain your treatment options, and tailor our care to meet your unique needs.
Located in the heart of Smithtown, NY, our office is easily accessible, and we offer flexible hours to accommodate your busy schedule. We strive to be available when you need us most, including during dental emergencies.
In addition to emergency services, we provide a wide range of dental treatments, from preventive care to restorative and cosmetic dentistry. This comprehensive approach ensures that all your dental needs can be met in one convenient location.
At Mathew DDS, we understand that dental emergencies require immediate attention and expert care. Our dedicated team in Smithtown, NY, is here to provide you with the highest quality emergency dental services. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment.