Coronavirus Announcement Now Offering Telehealth Consultations! COVID-19 Patient Screening Form

Dear Patients and Parents,

We are thrilled to announce the immediate availability of our secure telehealth video service! We now offer fully HIPAA-compliant video conferencing for our patients and friends that is:

Our new video chat service is completely safe and secure, fully protects the privacy of the patient, and works on Android and iOS, on PCs and Macs! The software is fully vetted and tested so that our patients and friends can rest assured that their protected health information will remain private and secure. All you need to have is a computer, tablet or smartphone with Web Cam and audio capabilities and a good internet connection! We are now scheduling appointments for new and established patients to video chat directly with the dentist to review your existing treatment plans and/or answer any of your dental need questions. Patients may schedule video chat appointments by calling our office and speaking with our staff available during business hours Monday through Friday.

Sincerely,
W. Roger Long, DDS, PA
Bethany T. Wierzbicki, DMD, MBA

Adriana Albite, DMD

W. Roger Long, DDS

Bethany Wierzbicki, DMD, MBA

Understanding Tooth Abscess

woman with dental pain needs a Ft. Pierce dentist

When it comes to your dental health, a tooth abscess is a serious matter that needs urgent care. If you’ve heard about it but aren’t sure what it is, it’s crucial to understand how severe the situation can be. A tooth abscess is not something to take lightly, and you should visit a qualified Ft. Pierce dentist right away.  

A Ft. Pierce dentist treating a patient with toothache

What is a Tooth Abscess? 

A tooth abscess happens when there is an infection in or around a tooth. It usually occurs when bacteria get inside a cavity, crack, or injury in the tooth. If not treated, the infection can spread and cause serious problems. 

Common Symptoms 

  • Persistent toothache: You might feel a strong, throbbing pain in the infected tooth. The pain can get worse when you bite or put pressure on it. 
  • Swelling and redness: The gum tissue around the infected area may look swollen and red. 
  • Sensitivity to temperature: The infected tooth can become very sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks, causing discomfort. 
  • Bad breath or unpleasant taste: The infection can lead to bad breath and a foul taste in your mouth. 
  • Fever and general discomfort: In some cases, a tooth abscess can cause fever, facial swelling, swollen glands, and an overall feeling of being sick. 

What to Do When You Suspect a Tooth Abscess

Make a Dental Appointment  

Contact your dentist or an emergency dental clinic and explain your symptoms. Ask for an urgent appointment, letting them know you suspect a tooth abscess. 

Keep Your Mouth Clean 

Continue brushing your teeth gently, paying attention to the infected area. Rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution (mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) to help reduce pain and bacteria.  

Use Over-the-counter Pain Relief 

Until you can see the dentist, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help with the pain. Additionally, don’t use hot packs or cold compresses directly on the infected area, as it may make the pain worse or cause more swelling.

A Ft. Pierce dentist examining a patient

Looking for a Ft. Pierce Dentist? 

If you experience any discomfort or suspect a tooth abscess, don’t hesitate to contact Smooth Sailing Dental, we will be ready to assist you! 

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Coronavirus Announcement Now Offering Telehealth Consultations! COVID-19 Patient Screening Form

Dear Patients and Parents,

We are thrilled to announce the immediate availability of our secure telehealth video service! We now offer fully HIPAA-compliant video conferencing for our patients and friends that is:

Our new video chat service is completely safe and secure, fully protects the privacy of the patient, and works on Android and iOS, on PCs and Macs! The software is fully vetted and tested so that our patients and friends can rest assured that their protected health information will remain private and secure. All you need to have is a computer, tablet or smartphone with Web Cam and audio capabilities and a good internet connection! We are now scheduling appointments for new and established patients to video chat directly with the dentist to review your existing treatment plans and/or answer any of your dental need questions. Patients may schedule video chat appointments by calling our office and speaking with our staff available during business hours Monday through Friday.

Sincerely,
W. Roger Long, DDS, PA
Bethany T. Wierzbicki, DMD, MBA