Different scenarios call for different action in a dental emergency. It is important to see your dentist ASAP; however, we know that this is not always possible.
Here are some tips to help you in the event you or a loved one is in a dental emergency and unable to get right into a dental office.
TOOTHACHE
- Rinse your mouth vigorously with warm water
- Use floss to remove any food particles stuck between the teeth. If there happens to be swelling present then apply cold pressure on the outside of the cheek
- Do no place aspirin on the aching teeth or gums because it will burn the tissue
- See your dentist as soon as possible
OBJECT STUCK BETWEEN THE TEETH
- Use dental floss to try and remove the object
- Guide the floss carefully so you do not cut the gums or wedge the object further down into the tissue
- Do not use a sharp or pointed instrument as it may cause more harm than good
BITTEN LIP OR TONGUE
- Take medication for pain relief
- If there is bleeding then apply direct pressure to the area
- To relieve swelling use ice every 10-15 minutes
- If the bleeding persists then call your dentist or go to the emergency room
KNOCKED-OUT TOOTH
- Apply direct pressure to the bleeding area for about 20-30 minutes
- If the bleeding still does not stop, call your dentist immediately or visit the emergency room
- Gently rinse the tooth with warm water, do not scrub it
- If it is a baby tooth do not try and insert it back into the socket
- If it is a permanent tooth you can try to gently insert the tooth back into the socket. If this is not possible then place the tooth in a container of milk or cool water
- Go to your dentist immediately and bring the tooth with you
BROKEN TOOTH
- If the broken piece is easy to remove then go ahead and do so
- Use a clean cloth to apply direct pressure to the area
- Use cold pressure on the face to minimize swelling in the area of the broken tooth
- Clean the area gently if needed with warm water
- If the edges are sharp use chewing gum or soft wax to cover these edges
- Go to your dentist immediately
In dentistry it is important to act fast to avoid problems getting even worse. For example, although your broken tooth may not hurt, it is important to have a dentist evaluate it as soon as possible because there still may be an issue although it is not causing you pain.
In dentistry prevention is key. Even if you are not experiencing discomfort or problems it is very important to see your dentist regularly for six month check-ups. By going for regular check-ups it is possible to avoid many emergencies that can arise.
Schedule your free consultation with Dr. Ken Cirka and Dr. Jessica Meier to see if you are at risk for any dental emergencies and learn what you can do to prevent them from happening.