Dental Emergencies: How to Handle Unexpected Oral Issues?

Dental emergencies can strike at any moment, whether you’re enjoying dinner, on vacation, or in the early hours of the night. It becomes very critical to know how to respond. Reacting swiftly and appropriately can change the game for you: your tooth might be saved, or you might require extensive procedures later in life. 

In this blog, you will find detailed information on how to handle dental emergencies, ensuring that unexpected oral issues do not escalate. 

What Is a Dental Emergency?

Not every oral issue has to be considered an emergency. There will be conditions that need urgent action. A dental emergency usually involves bleeding, severe pain/infection, or trauma to the mouth or face.

A few examples of dental emergencies include: 

• Tooth knocked out or fractured.

• Severe pain with swelling.

• A dental abscess or infected tissue.

• Lost crown or filling that hurts or leaves sensitive tissue exposed. 

If you’re unsure, it’s better to call an emergency dentist Davie, and describe your symptoms. 

Common Dental Emergencies and What to Do

Knocked Out Tooth

Hold the tooth by the crown (the top); do not touch the root. Rinse it gently with water, avoiding scrubbing, and then try to put it back in the socket. Otherwise, store it in milk or saliva, and go to a dentist within 30 minutes.

Cracked or Broken Tooth

Rinse your mouth with warm water, and apply a cold compress to ease the swelling. Do not chew on that side and call your dentist immediately.

Bad toothaches

Rinsing with warm water and flossing can free food stuck between teeth. Take analgesics and have dental care done at a later date if the pain continues.

Lost Filling or Crown

Until you can get to a dentist, cover the area with temporary dental cement (available at most drugstores) or sugarless chewing gum. Do not chew on that side.

Abscess or Infection

Abscesses can become serious and typically come with swelling, fever, and a metallic taste. Rinse with warm salt water and see your dentist immediately. The untreated infection can spread fast.

What Not to Do in a Dental Emergency?

Do not ignore any severe pain or swelling, as it may be the beginning of an infection.

• Do not chew up aspirin and place it directly on the gums- it will burn.

• Never use pointed, sharp objects to extract anything from between teeth.

• Never delay seeking treatment if a tooth has been knocked out or broken. 

When to Visit a Dentist or an Emergency Room?

• A knocked-out or severely damaged tooth.
  
• Fever, swelling, and pus emanating from an infected site.
  
• Bleeding from the mouth that you cannot stop.

These situations call for an emergency dental visit.

Suggestions for Avoiding Dental Emergencies

• Wear a mouthguard for contact sports.

• Avoid chewing on hard items, such as ice, popcorn kernels, and others.

• Don’t use your teeth for package or bottle opening.

• Give attention to your routine dental exams and cleanings.

Dental emergencies can cause distress, but by being prepared, one can significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome. Quick thinking, gentle counsel, and timely dental care are imperative to safeguarding your oral health. 

Contact our dentist immediately if you are faced with a dental emergency for consultation and possible treatment.