During this period in time our office is closed now through the rest of April. I understand that things will happen in the meantime. I have listed here common issues that we receive calls about in an attempt to streamline information.
****PLEASE*****
During this time I ask that any messages be emailed to hilltopdentalpa@gmail.com as well as voicemail. It is much easier to have everything in our email so that all info is available to us. In your email please take pictures when and if you can and attach them to the email. Also please leave a brief description of symptoms. One of us will then email you back.
Having said that here are some common things arising and the general idea of what it means and what to do about it. Please note during this time the CDC and the PA department of Health has put restrictions on what we are allowed to do.
MY CROWN HAS COME OFF
In these instances the easiest and fastest fix is to buy some Fixodent and put the crown back on yourself, it stays tacky and doesn’t harden.
I LOST A FILLING
There is a material called Temparin Max. its a temporary material. It can be purchased from most drug stores or Wal Mart or Target. Follow the enclosed instructions and use it to fill the space back in where the filling was.
MY TOOTH BROKE
Same as above. Temparin Max. If you are having symptoms after such an occurrence we will guide as what to do next. If the tooth is without symptoms, then there is no need for concern during this time.
I HAVE A TOOTHACHE / MY FACE IS SWOLEN
These are considered emergencies and need to handled appropriately. Most toothaches are going to occur either from a tooth dying (either from extensive decay or from many procedures being done to a tooth over its lifetime) leading to an infection or a large trauma that breaks a significant part of tooth off. Many times the involved tooth will require either an extraction or a root canal. Our local specialists are still open and seeing patients so these treatments can still be done. In the event of an abcess or swelling treatment with antibiotics is the first route and very effective.
I CHIPPED A FRONT TOOTH
In instances where it is purely cosmetic, unfortunately, nothing can be done for them at this time. It is an elective procedure and thusly PA has said we cannot treat.
Your understanding in these confusing times is much appreciated. This is uncharted territory for the whole world and we’re doing out best to provide the necessary care during this time.
Thank you and God bless!
Dr. Matt Sroka