Experiencing an issue can bring about pain and anxiety unexpectedly for most people. Understanding what to do if you have a dental emergency can play a role in maintaining oral health and reducing discomfort. Here is some practical guidance to assist you in managing emergencies with ease.
Identifying a Dental Emergency
Some problems can’t wait; some situations indicate an emergency. Here is a summary of dental emergencies:
- Excruciating Tooth Pain – Constant discomfort.
- Knocked-Out Tooth – A knocked-out tooth refers to a tooth that has been completely uprooted from its socket in the mouth.
- Broken or Chipped Tooth – When a tooth is broken or chipped, you can see fractures or parts of the tooth.
- Lost Filling or Crown – When a filling or crown goes missing, it means that the dental restoration has come loose or fallen out of place.
- Dental Abscess – A dental abscess occurs when an infection causes swelling in the mouth along with pain and the formation of pus.
What to Do In a Dental Emergency
Understanding what to do in a dental emergency and how to respond in case of an emergency is essential to avoid any additional issues arising.
In the event of an emergency, swift and proper steps can help preserve your tooth and alleviate discomfort.
Knocked-Out Tooth
- Be gentle when handling it – Hold the tooth from the top (the part you chew with) and avoid touching the root.
- Gently Rinse Method– If the tooth is dirty, rinse it with water gently without scrubbing or removing any tissue.
- If Possible, Reinset It – Try to place the lost tooth back into its socket; if possible, avoid applying too much pressure.
- Keep Moist- Remember to keep the tooth moist by storing it in milk or a saline solution if reinsertion is not an option.
- Seek attention– It’s crucial to visit a dentist within the hour to increase the odds of saving your tooth.
Tooth Pain
- Rinse Your Mouth: Clean the area by rinsing your mouth with water.
- Floss Gently: Floss to clean out any bits of food stuck between your teeth.
- Apply a Cold Compress: Use a compress by placing it on the cheek adjacent to the pain area to help decrease swelling.
- Over-The-Counter Pain Medications: An over-the-counter pain medication can help lessen or alleviate your discomfort. Applying painkillers directly to your gums is not advised, as this may damage the tissues.
- Consult a Dentist Promptly: Make sure to see a dentist if you have ongoing pain that needs expert assessment.
Damaged Tooth
- Save the Tooth Pieces: Remember to gather all the parts of the tooth.
- Rinse Your Mouth: Clean your mouth by rinsing the area with water.
- Stop Bleeding: To stop the bleeding, place gauze on the wound for 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops.
- Reduce Swelling: To alleviate swelling, apply a compress to the cheek or lip adjacent to the impacted area.
- Visit Your Dentist Immediately: Make sure to contact your dentist in Kelowna right away to avoid serious damage, complications, and more.
How to Protect Your Teeth From Injury
Accidents may occur unexpectedly; by following these tips, you can reduce the chances of experiencing emergencies:
- Wear Protective Gear: Remember to wear a protective mouthguard when engaging in sports or recreational activities.
- Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Remember to steer off biting down on ice or hard candy, as it can be harmful to your teeth and gums.
- Maintain Regular Dental Check-Ups: Remember to keep up with your checkups; they play a crucial role in detecting and addressing any possible problems at an early stage.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Maintain your oral health by brushing and flossing your teeth every day to ensure the health of your teeth and gums.
Need an Emergency Dentist in West Kelowna?
Being prepared with a plan and knowing what to do if you have a dental emergency can significantly influence the outcome. In urgent situations, acting swiftly and receiving the required assistance is crucial to saving your tooth. Don’t hesitate to contact us at Westbank Dental & Implant Center to learn more about our timely and compassionate care.