Anyone can be affected by a dental emergency no matter how careful or healthy they are. This may happen during an intense basketball game or while eating your favorite meal with friends or family. Whatever the story, your teeth will most likely need some professional help. Whereas getting to your dentist straight away after an emergency is very essential to maintaining your dental health, there are several things you can do to avoid further damage. Here are five of the most common dental emergencies and how to deal with them.
1. Knocked out teeth
Knocked-out teeth are very common, trauma to the mouth usually causes them. In case you knock out a tooth, there are a few important things you can do to save it time. Find the tooth and pick it up by the crown. Use some milk or clean water to rinse it off and be careful not to scrub the root. If you can, restore the tooth to the socket and gently bite it down. Find your dentist or oral health therapist as soon as possible so that they can assess the damage and decide on the best course of action.
2. Broken, chipped, or cracked teeth
In many instances, a minor chip in the tooth does not require dental emergency care, especially if it is not causing any pain. Usually, these chips occur while eating and should be followed up with an oral appointment to assess the condition of your gums and teeth. For a more extensive crack or fracture, begin by rinsing your mouth with warm water to clean the affected area. Treat any swelling or pain with a cold compress and an anti-inflammatory painkiller such as ibuprofen. Then contact your dentist right away.
3. Missing crown or filling
Your missing crown or filling will surely bring you pain due to the exposed tissue. Avoid taking cold or hot foods and drinks to reduce the sensitivity. Before seeing your dentist, you can try placing the crown back on with some tooth cement or place some tooth cement straight onto the tooth to protect it in the meantime.
4. Painful or Infected tooth
Pain is the first sign of an oral infection; it is often accompanied by redness or swelling of the gums. Maintaining your regular brushing and flossing should help you get rid of mild gingivitis or gum disease. You can boost this by using an antibacterial mouthwash or rinsing it with salty water. If these symptoms persist, make sure to consult your dentist. If this is left unattended, a minor case of gingivitis may result in severe periodontitis.
5. Tissue Injuries
Lacerations, cuts, or other wounds can also occur to the cheeks, lips, tongue, and other soft tissues of your mouth. If you experience trauma to the tissue, gently rinse your mouth with water to assess the extent of the injury. Apply pressure to the area using a clean cloth or gauze to stop bleeding. If extensive or persistent bleeding occurs, seek immediate care from your dentist.
Conclusion
It is essential to have a dental professional on hand to help in a dental emergency. Visit or contact Carrum Downs Dental Clinic today to learn how we can help you with emergency dentistry.