Do you have a dental emergency on your hands? An injury to your gums or teeth can lead to serious trouble. Ignoring a dental problem increases the risk of permanent damage. A dental emergency can happen anywhere and at any time. Learn how to handle a dental emergency.
Toothache
Rinse your mouth with warm water. Use dental floss to remove any food particles. If your mouth is swollen, apply a cool compress to your cheek or mouth. Do not place aspirin or any other pain reliever against your gums or near the aching tooth, as this can damage the tissue. Visit a dentist as soon as possible.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
Rinse any broken or chipped pieces with warm water. Place gauze over the affected area until the bleeding stops. Apply a cold compress to your lips, cheek, or mouth to reduce swelling and relieve pain. Visit your dentist as quickly as possible.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If you have a knocked-out tooth, you may be able to save it by holding the crown and rinsing the root with water. Be careful not to scrub or remove any tissue fragments. Try to place the tooth back in its original position if possible, and see your dentist immediately. If the tooth is returned to its socket within an hour, the dentist has a better chance of saving it.
Pain and Swelling
Contact an emergency dentist to treat the pain. Apply a cold compress to the affected cheek or mouth. If necessary, take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Object Stuck Between Teeth
If you have a small object stuck between your teeth, try using dental floss to remove it. If you can’t get the object out, see your dentist immediately. Avoid using sharp objects or pins to remove the item, as they can scratch the surface of your teeth.
Lost Filling
If you lose a filling, use sugarless gum or dental cement to temporarily cover the cavity. Visit your dentist as soon as possible.
Lost Crown
If a crown falls off, make an appointment to see your dentist so it can be replaced. If you can’t visit your dentist right away and the tooth is in extreme pain, take pain medication. If possible, slip the crown back over the tooth. To hold the crown in place, coat the inner surface with toothpaste, denture adhesive, or over-the-counter dental cement.
Broken Brackets and Wires
Use the eraser end of a pencil to move the bracket or wire to a more comfortable position. If you can’t reposition the wire, cover it with a cotton ball, orthodontic tape, or a piece of gauze. Avoid cutting the wire, as you may swallow or inhale it.
Reattach loose bands and brackets with orthodontic wax as a temporary solution. Visit your orthodontist as soon as possible. Save the band and contact your dentist to have it re-cemented or replaced.
Dental Abscess
Abscesses are infections around the root of a tooth or between the teeth and gums. If left untreated, they can cause serious damage to surrounding tissues and teeth. The infection can also spread to other parts of the body. If you notice a painful, pimple-like lump on your gum, visit your dentist immediately. Rinse your mouth several times a day with a saltwater solution or an antibacterial mouthwash.
Soft Tissue Injuries
If you have a soft tissue injury, such as to your cheek, lip, gums, or tongue, bleeding may occur. Stop the bleeding by:
- Rinsing your mouth with a mild saltwater solution.
- Applying pressure with a moistened tea bag or piece of gauze for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Holding a cool compress to the outside of your cheek or mouth for 5 to 10 minutes to ease pain and reduce bleeding.
If bleeding continues, visit your dentist immediately or go to an emergency room. Keep applying pressure to the bleeding area.
Five Tips from an Emergency Dentist to Prevent Oral Problems
You don’t want to start your day with a visit to the dentist because of preventable dental problems. Dental emergencies usually occur when there is a greater risk of tooth loss or extreme pain. You should see your dentist immediately if you experience any type of oral emergency. Whether it’s a sudden injury during sports or a slowly developing abscess, here are five tips to reduce the risk of oral problems:
1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene is essential for maintaining healthy gums and teeth. Brush twice daily and floss every day. Food particles can lead to bacteria buildup, causing tooth decay or gum disease. These infections can be damaging to teeth and gums, often leading to emergency dentist visits.
2. Take Your Vitamins
Vitamins are essential for keeping your gums and teeth strong, which helps prevent injury and decay. Vitamins B, C, and A promote gum health and reduce the risk of periodontal diseases. Calcium and Vitamin D strengthen teeth and improve stability.
3. Eat Wisely
You’ve probably heard that sugary foods, crackers, and starchy foods are bad for your teeth. You should also avoid coffee, sodas, alcohol, and fruit juices as they can damage your teeth. Be careful with hard, crunchy foods, as they can cause damage. Avoid eating anything that requires excessive force to chew properly.
4. Use Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a great way to protect your teeth. They help prevent decay, especially in children, but they are also effective for adults. Sealants are plastic coatings that cover the chewing surfaces of your teeth, like molars. These coatings prevent food particles from getting trapped and forming plaque.
5. Schedule Routine Check-Ups
Routine check-ups with your dentist are essential. Visit your dentist every six months for a thorough examination of your teeth and mouth. Dentists use special tools to remove plaque that brushing alone can’t. Skipping regular visits increases the risk of gum disease and cavities. During your appointment, your dentist will also check for any signs of oral problems.
Sometimes, dental emergencies can be unbearable, causing extreme pain and long-term damage. Treating these problems quickly often requires expensive dental procedures. Preventive care can help you avoid emergency dental visits and keep your mouth healthy. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, book an appointment on our website to solve the problem as soon as possible.
This post was written by a professional at Elite Dental and Orthodontics. Your partner for dental implants Westchester CA, Elite Dental’s mission is to provide exceptional dental care that brings smiles to life. Whether you’re seeking relief from tooth pain, considering a veneer smile makeover, or require a dental implant, our experienced team is here to guide you on your journey to optimal oral health in Los Angeles, CA.
