23 March 2023
Ever bitten into an apple only to feel a shooting pain in your tooth? Or had your kid come home crying after a playground accident, holding a broken tooth? Dental emergencies are more common than you think, and knowing how to handle them can save you from unnecessary pain and anxiety. In this blog, we'll take a look at some common dental emergencies and explore the dos and don'ts for each situation. So, grab a cup of tea, get comfy, and let's dive into the world of dental drama!
1. Toothache
Toothache is one of the most common dental emergencies, and it can be caused by a variety of issues, such as cavities, gum disease, or even sinus infections.
Dos:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to help dislodge any food particles that may be causing the pain.
- Floss gently around the affected tooth to remove debris.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to alleviate pain (but always follow the recommended dosage).
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help reduce inflammation.
Don'ts:
- Don't place aspirin or any other painkillers directly on the gums or tooth; this can cause burns or damage.
- Don't ignore the pain; if it persists for more than a day or two, schedule a visit to your dentist.
2. Chipped or Broken Tooth
Accidents happen, and sometimes a chipped or broken tooth is the unfortunate result.
Dos:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
- Apply gauze to any bleeding areas, applying gentle pressure until the bleeding stops.
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Save any pieces of the tooth and bring them with you to the dentist
- Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to assess the damage and determine the best course of action.
Don'ts:
- Don't attempt to fix the tooth yourself with super glue or other household items.
- Avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth to prevent further damage.
- Don't delay seeking professional help; waiting too long can lead to complications.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is a true dental emergency that requires immediate attention.
Dos:
- Pick up the tooth by the crown (the part that's usually visible in your mouth), not the root.
- If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with water, but don't scrub or remove any tissue fragments.
- Try to reinsert the tooth back into its socket, making sure it's facing the right way. If you can't, store it in a container of milk or a saline solution.
- Get to the dentist as soon as possible – ideally, within 30 minutes to an hour. The sooner you get there, the better the chances of saving the tooth.
Don'ts:
- Don't touch the root of the tooth; this can damage the delicate fibers needed for successful reattachment.
- Don't let the tooth dry out; keeping it moist is essential for preserving it.
4. Partially Dislodged Tooth
If a tooth is partially dislodged but still attached, it's essential to act quickly to increase the chances of saving the tooth.
Dos:
- Get to the dentist as soon as possible; time is of the essence.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek to help reduce swelling and pain.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help alleviate discomfort (but always follow the recommended dosage).
Don'ts:
- Don't try to force the tooth back into place on your own; this can cause further damage.
- Avoid biting or chewing on the affected tooth to prevent additional injury.
- Don't wait to seek professional help; delaying can decrease the chances of saving the tooth.
5. Lost Filling or Crown
Fillings and crowns can sometimes fall out, leaving the tooth vulnerable to further damage.
Dos:
- Save the filling or crown if you can find it, and bring it with you to the dentist.
- If it's a crown, try to temporarily reattach it using toothpaste, denture adhesive, or over-the-counter dental cement until you can see your dentist.
- Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to have the filling or crown replaced.
Don'ts:
- Don't try to force the filling or crown back into place if it doesn't fit; this can cause damage to the tooth or surrounding tissues.
- Avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth to prevent further damage.
- Don't delay seeking professional help; leaving the tooth exposed can result in further decay or damage.
Dealing with dental emergencies can be stressful, but knowing how to handle them effectively can make all the difference. Remember that the most important thing you can do in any dental emergency is to stay calm, take appropriate first-aid measures, and seek professional help as soon as possible. With four locations, and extended evening and weekend hours, Gentle Teeth and Braces is your go-to dental office. Our offices are conveniently located in Pembroke Pines, Weston, Kendall, and Coral Springs. We treat patients with these and other dental emergencies, as well as general dental care and orthodontics, and are here to help you through these situations, so don't hesitate to reach out for assistance. With a bit of knowledge and a level head, you'll be well-prepared to face any dental emergency that comes your way.
