Dental emergencies can arise unexpectedly, leaving you in discomfort or pain. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a chipped tooth, or a more serious injury, knowing what to do in these situations can make it much easier for an emergency dentist to offer care for your issue. Here, we’ll take a look at some common dental emergencies and offer practical advice on how to manage them.
1. Toothache
Toothaches may range from a mild annoyance to severe pain that disrupts daily life. Some typical causes are tooth decay, infection, or gum disease.
How to Handle It:
– Rinse with a Salt Water Solution
Measure a teaspoon or so of salt into a glass of warm water. Gently rinse your mouth with the solution. This can help reduce inflammation and sterilize the area.
– Take Some Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide temporary relief. Some common toothache home remedies may also help keep any discomfort at bay while you wait to see your dentist.
– Cover the Area with a Cold Compress
Place a cold compress on your cheek to bring down any swelling and numb the pain.
– Avoid Certain Foods
Stay away from very hot, cold, or sugary foods that can aggravate your condition.
– See Your Dentist
If the pain persists or worsens, schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Severe toothaches could indicate an infection that requires immediate treatment.
2. Chipped or Broken Tooth
A chipped or broken tooth can happen due to accidents, sports injuries, or biting into something hard. Depending on the severity, it may expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
How to Handle It:
– Save the Fragments
If possible, collect any pieces of the tooth and store them in milk or saline solution to preserve them.
– Rinse Out Your Mouth
Use warm water to clean around the teeth and remove any debris.
– Place Gauze
If there is bleeding, gently press a piece of gauze against the area until it stops.
– Apply Dental Wax
If a broken tooth has sharp edges, use dental wax or sugarless gum to cover them and protect your cheeks and tongue.
– Visit Your Dentist
Prompt dental attention is always crucial in case of emergency. Your dentist may repair the tooth with bonding, a crown, or other restorative techniques.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth
Having a tooth completely knocked out is among the more pressing dental emergencies. Quick action can often save the tooth and allow it to be reimplanted.
How to Handle It:
– Find Your Tooth with Care
Carefully grasp the crown solely by the crown (the top part), avoiding the root.
– Rinse Gently
If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with water. Avoid scrubbing or using soap.
– Reinsert the Tooth
If possible, carefully place the tooth back into its socket and hold it in place.
– Keep It Moist
If reinsertion isn’t possible, store your missing tooth in milk, saline, or inside your cheek until you reach your dentist.
– Seek Care Immediately
A dentist should treat a knocked-out tooth within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving it.
4. Lost Crown or Filling
Fillings and crowns can loosen or fall out due to decay or biting into hard foods. This can leave the affected tooth vulnerable to sensitivity and further damage.
How to Handle It:
– Retrieve the Restoration
If you can, save your crown or filling and keep it safe.
– Clean the Affected Area
Rinse with warm water to clear away any debris.
– Use Temporary Dental Cement
Available at most pharmacies, this can temporarily secure a loose crown or cover the exposed area until you see your dentist.
– Avoid Certain Foods
Steer clear of sticky, hard, or sugary foods that can exacerbate the problem.
– Visit Your Dentist
Your dentist will assess whether the filling or crown can be reattached or if a new restoration is needed.
5. Cracked Tooth
A cracked tooth can occur from trauma, grinding, or biting into something hard. Cracks can range from minor surface fractures to deeper splits that affect the tooth’s structure.
How to Handle It:
– Rinse Your Mouth
Use warm water to clean the injured area.
– Avoid Chewing on the Injured Side
This helps prevent further damage.
– Cold Compress
Apply it on your cheek to bring down swelling and reduce pain.
– Temporary Dental Filling
If available, use dental cement to cover the crack.
– Consult Your Dentist
A cracked tooth requires professional evaluation. Treatment may involve bonding, a crown, or in severe cases, root canal therapy.
6. Abscess
An abscess is described as a painful infection located close to a tooth’s root or in the gums. This condition typically causes swelling, fever, and leaves a foul taste in the mouth.
How to Handle It:
– Rinse with Salt Water
This can help reduce bacteria and draw out some of the infection.
– Refrain from Trying to Drain It
Leave this to a dental professional.
– Use Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter medication can help manage the pain.
– Seek Prompt Dental Care
Abscesses can lead to serious complications if untreated, so don’t delay.
7. Soft Tissue Injuries
Injuries to the lips, cheeks, or tongue can result in significant bleeding and discomfort.
How to Handle It:
– Rinse the Area
Rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution.
– Apply Some Pressure
Use a clean cloth or gauze to control bleeding.
– Place a Cold Compress
This can reduce swelling and numb pain.
– Avoid Irritants
Stay away from spicy or acidic foods until the injury heals.
– Visit Your Dentist or Doctor
If bleeding doesn’t stop or the injury is severe, seek medical attention.
8. Object Lodged Between Teeth
Food particles or small objects can sometimes become stuck between teeth, causing discomfort or pain.
How to Handle It:
– Use Dental Floss
Gently work the floss around the object, being careful not to force it.
– Rinse Your Mouth
A saltwater rinse can help dislodge the object and soothe irritation.
– Avoid Sharp Tools
Refrain from using sharp objects to remove the item, as this can cause damage.
– See Your Dentist
If the object cannot be removed, your dentist can carefully extract it.
Dental emergencies can be unsettling, but knowing what to do about them can help you stay calm and protect teeth and gums. While these tips can provide temporary relief, always consult a dentist as soon as possible for a thorough assessment and treatment. Keeping your dentist’s contact information readily available ensures you’re prepared for any unexpected dental issue. A little research so you know what to expect from an emergency clinic also goes a long way to keeping yourself prepared in case the unexpected should happen.
When it comes to oral health, having the right dentist on your side matters. At Dr. Mark Rhody Dentistry, we provide a wide range of dental services for the whole family. Whether you need family dentistry to care for your kids’ teeth or emergency dentistry when the unexpected happens, you can count on our team to give you the care your teeth deserve. Give us a call now at (416) 231-4281 and give your teeth a little TLC.