Emergencies can happen at any moment, and such unforeseen circumstances can include dental emergencies. More often than not, these require immediate action to alleviate pain, prevent further complications, and potentially save a tooth. This article presents practical first-aid steps one ought to know when confronted with dental emergencies.
Common Dental Emergencies and their First Aid
While it’s advisable to see a dental professional should any of the following situations occur, there are steps you can initially take to manage the situation.
Broken or Chipped Teeth
Rinse the mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If possible, save any pieces of the broken tooth and take them to your dentist.
Knocked-out Tooth
Handle the tooth by the top (the crown), not the root portion. Rinse, but do not scrub, the tooth to remove dirt or debris. If possible, try to place the tooth back in the socket without forcing it. If this can’t be done, place the tooth in a small container of milk and call your dentist immediately.
Toothache
Rinse the mouth with warm water to ensure it’s clean. Gently use dental floss to dislodge any food caught between the teeth. If the pain persists, make an appointment with your dentist. Avoid placing an aspirin directly on the aching tooth or gum tissues.
FAQs about Dental First Aid
What should I do if I have a swollen face due to an abscessed tooth?
A dental abscess is a serious condition that usually indicates an infection. Rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution (half a teaspoon of table salt in 8 ounces of water) several times a day to ease the pain and draw the pus towards the surface. However, see your dentist as soon as possible.
Can I fix a lost filling or crown?
If a filling or crown is lost, you can temporarily replace it with over-the-counter dental cement, but visit your dentist as soon as you can.
How do I care for my gums after tooth extraction?
After tooth extraction, bite gently on a gauze pad and change the pad as it becomes soaked with blood. Also, try not to disturb the extraction site. You may eat soft foods and brush your teeth, but avoid the extraction site.
Conclusion
Facing a dental emergency can be daunting, but knowing what to do in the initial moments could save your tooth. The discussed practical first-aid steps will adopt a proactive approach when an unexpected dental emergency arises. All the same, it’s crucial to reach out to a dental professional as soon as you can for further help.