What to Do in a Dental Emergency: a Step-by-Step Guide
September 13, 2024 9:00 amDental emergencies can happen at the most unexpected times, and quick action can make a big difference in saving your tooth or minimizing damage. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth or sudden tooth pain, knowing what to do is essential. Here’s a clear guide on how to handle a dental emergency.
Find the tooth: Hold it by the crown, not the root, to avoid damaging the delicate tissue.
Rinse the tooth: Use water or milk to gently clean the tooth, but avoid scrubbing.
Reinsert if possible: For permanent teeth, try to place the tooth back in the socket. If you can’t, keep it in a cup of milk or between your cheek and gums until you can get to a dentist.
Primary teeth (baby teeth): If a primary (baby) tooth is knocked out, do not attempt to reinsert it. Reinserting it can interfere with the positioning of the underlying permanent tooth. Instead, contact your dentist to evaluate the situation.
Rinse your mouth: Use warm water to clean out any debris or food particles.
Floss gently: Ensure no food is lodged between your teeth, as this can sometimes cause the pain.
Over-the-counter pain relief: Use an OTC pain reliever like ibuprofen to reduce discomfort, but don’t apply aspirin directly to the gums—it can burn the tissue.
See your dentist as soon as possible: Toothaches can indicate infections or cavities that need immediate treatment.
Rinse your mouth: Clean the area with warm water.
Save any pieces: If possible, collect the pieces of the tooth.
Apply a cold compress: This will help reduce swelling.
Visit your dentist: Your dentist will assess the damage and recommend the best treatment, which may involve a crown, veneer, or bonding.
Keep the area clean: Rinse your mouth to remove any food particles.
Temporarily cover the tooth: Use dental cement from a drugstore or a piece of sugarless gum to cover the exposed area until you can see a dentist.
Bring the crown with you: If it’s a crown that’s come off, bring it to your dentist appointment so it can potentially be reattached.
Rinse your mouth: Clean the area with warm water.
Avoid chewing on that side: Stick to soft foods and avoid putting pressure on the cracked tooth.
Cold compress: Apply this to reduce swelling if your face is swollen.
Get dental care immediately: A crack can worsen, so timely treatment is essential.
Gently floss: Avoid using sharp objects to dislodge it.
See your dentist: If floss doesn’t help, avoid pushing further and let your dentist remove it to prevent damage to your gums or teeth.
Clean the area: Rinse your mouth with salt water.
Apply pressure: Use a clean cloth or gauze to stop the bleeding.
Cold compress: Reduce swelling with a cold compress.
Call your dentist: Persistent bleeding or deep cuts need professional attention.
1. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)
If a permanent tooth is knocked out, time is critical to saving it.
Seeing a dentist as soon as possible is crucial, especially if it’s a permanent tooth. You have a higher chance of saving the tooth if you can see a dentist within 30 minutes to an hour.
2. Severe Toothache
A sudden, severe toothache can be more than just an inconvenience.
3. Broken or Chipped Tooth
Even a small chip can lead to bigger problems if not addressed.
4. Lost Filling or Crown
Losing a filling or crown can cause pain and sensitivity.
5. Cracked Tooth
A cracked tooth can cause pain when chewing or expose the nerves.
6. Object Stuck Between Teeth
When flossing just isn’t working, a stuck object can be frustrating.
7. Bleeding Gums or Soft Tissue Injury
If you have injured your tongue, cheek, or gums, here’s what to do:
Emergency Care at Alma Dental Care in Petaluma, CA
When a dental emergency strikes, getting prompt and proper care is critical. Dr. Serrano at Alma Dental Care in Petaluma, CA, is equipped to handle all dental emergencies, ensuring that you get the care you need to protect your oral health. If you experience any of these emergencies, don’t hesitate to contact us right away!
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