Dental emergencies can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere. Knowing what to do during a dental emergency before visiting a clinic can ensure the problem doesn’t worsen.
Whether it’s a lost tooth, extreme and sudden pain, a chipped tooth, bleeding after oral surgery, or a dislodged crown, dental emergencies require immediate action on your part and attention from a dentist. In this blog, we’ll examine these common emergencies and what you can do to manage them until you can search for an emergency dentist near me.
A Tooth Has Suddenly Fallen Out
A lost tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention. The first step is to find the lost tooth and grab it by the crown, the top part of the tooth. You should avoid getting the root of the tooth dirty at all costs. Rinse the tooth with milk or saline solution if you need to clean it. Do not use water, as it can damage the tooth.
Next, try to reinsert the tooth into the socket. If you can’t reinsert the tooth, place it in a container of milk or saliva to keep it moist. Then, contact your dentist immediately. The dentist may be able to reattach the tooth if you get to them quickly enough.
Extreme and Sudden Pain
Extreme and sudden pain in the mouth can be caused by a variety of issues, such as an infection, abscess, or injury. The first thing to do is to rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to help reduce swelling and disinfect the area. Over-the-counter pain medication can also be taken to help manage the pain. If the pain is severe, search for an emergency dentist near me as soon as possible. They can identify the underlying issue and provide appropriate treatment.
Chipped or Cracked Tooth
A chipped tooth is a common dental emergency that can occur for various reasons. Collect any broken pieces if you chip a tooth and rinse your mouth with warm saltwater. If there is bleeding, apply pressure with a piece of gauze until it stops. Use a cold compress on the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling. Contact an emergency dentist near me as soon as possible for an appointment. Depending on the severity of the chip, they may recommend filling or bonding to restore the tooth.
Dislodged Crowns
If a crown comes loose or falls out, contact your dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, try to gently push the crown back into place with dental cement or toothpaste to keep it in place. Avoid eating hard or sticky foods, and be gentle when brushing and flossing around the crown to avoid further damage.
Dental Emergencies Need To Be Handled Quickly
Waiting too long to take action after a dental emergency can permanently damage your teeth and lead to a more expensive dental procedure. If your tooth has fallen out, remember to avoid touching the tooth’s root and to keep it stored in milk. Afterward, contact an emergency dentist near me as soon as possible.