Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them, and knowing how to respond can make all the difference in saving a tooth, alleviating pain, and preventing further complications. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, a severe toothache, or a chipped tooth, being prepared and acting quickly is crucial. Here’s what you need to know about handling common dental emergencies and the first aid steps you should take before getting to our dental practice.
- 1. Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. If you act quickly, there’s a good chance the tooth can be re-implanted. Here’s what to do:
- Find the Tooth: Handle it by the crown (the part you chew with), not the root, to avoid damaging any tissue that might help with re-implantation.
- Rinse Gently: If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with water. Do not scrub or remove any attached tissue.
- Reinsert the Tooth: If possible, try to place the tooth back into its socket. Hold it in place by biting down gently on a clean cloth or gauze.
- Keep the Tooth Moist: If you can’t reinsert it, place the tooth in a container of milk or a tooth preservation product like Save-a-Tooth. Water can be used as a last resort.
- Get to our Dental Practice Immediately: Time is of the essence—try to get to our dental practice within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.
- Severe Toothache
Toothaches can be caused by a variety of issues, from cavities to infections. If you experience a sudden, severe toothache, follow these steps:
- Rinse Your Mouth: Use warm water to clean out your mouth.
- Floss Gently: Sometimes, food particles stuck between your teeth can cause pain. Gently floss to remove anything that might be lodged.
- Apply a Cold Compress: To reduce swelling and numb the pain, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area.
- Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Avoid placing aspirin or any other painkiller directly on your gums or tooth, as it could burn the tissue.
- See Your Dentist ASAP: Toothaches rarely go away on their own, and they often indicate a more serious issue that needs professional care.
- Chipped or Broken Tooth
A chipped or broken tooth might not always be an emergency, but it should still be addressed quickly to avoid further damage:
- Rinse Your Mouth: Clean the area with warm water.
- Save the Broken Pieces: If you can find the pieces of your tooth, place them in a container and bring them to your dental appointment.
- Apply Gauze for Bleeding: If there is bleeding, apply gauze to the area and press down to stop it.
- Protect the Tooth: If the break has caused a sharp or jagged edge, cover it with dental wax or a piece of sugarless gum to protect your tongue and cheek.
- Lost Filling or Crown
If a filling or crown falls out, it’s important to protect the tooth and see your dentist as soon as possible:
- Keep the Crown Safe: If you have the crown, keep it in a safe place and bring it to your dental appointment.
- Use Dental Cement: If you can’t get to the dentist right away, you can use over-the-counter dental cement or even sugarless gum to temporarily seal the tooth.
Dental emergencies can be stressful, but being prepared can help you manage the situation effectively. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth or a severe toothache, knowing the right steps to take can make all the difference in saving your smile. At One Family Dental in south Burlington, we’re here to help with any dental emergency you may face.
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t wait—contact us immediately, by calling us at (905) 634-9115 or visit our practice to get the care you need. Your oral health is our top priority, and we’re just a phone call away!