Understanding how to handle dental emergencies can help alleviate anxiety and keep the situation from worsening.
This guide provides helpful information on dealing with various situations, whether you're a concerned parent or someone seeking to manage dental emergencies effectively.
Let's dive right in.
What Constitutes an Emergency Dental Situation?
Dental issues could worsen or be potentially life-threatening if not treated immediately. They can cause severe pain or damage to the tooth, gums, or oral health.
Quick intervention is crucial as neglecting symptoms can result in serious complications. It can be tough to tell, though, which situations warrant emergency dental care.
Reaching out to your dental team can help you determine the safest action.
Step-By-Step Guide to Handling Dental Emergencies
Toothaches
A toothache can be mildly uncomfortable or excruciatingly painful. Cavities, infections, and traumas are all possible causes.
If you or your child has a toothache:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Gently use dental floss or an interdental cleaner to ensure no food or other debris is lodged around the tooth.
- If the pain persists, don’t apply aspirin or painkillers directly to the gum as this can burn the tissue.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth or cheek to ease swelling.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A tooth can fall out because of an accident or injury. This is an emergency, and quick action can save your tooth.
If a tooth is knocked out:
- Don’t hold the tooth by the root but by the crown.
- If the tooth is dirty, clean it with warm water. Don’t use soap or chemicals and don’t scrub the tooth.
- Put the tooth back in its socket and use a clean piece of gauze or cloth to hold it in place.
- Place the tooth in a cup of milk or saliva if you can't put it back in.
- Try to get to the dentist within 30 minutes.
Chipped or Broken Tooth
Accidents or biting down on hard objects can result in a chipped or broken tooth.
If you have a chipped or broken tooth:
- Rinse your mouth out with warm water.
- Apply gauze if there’s bleeding.
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain.
- Save any pieces if possible and keep them moist in milk or saliva.
Severe Infections or Abscesses
An abscess is a pus-filled pocket that can be very serious and should be treated as soon as possible.
If you suspect you have a dental abscess:
- Rinse with warm salt water to help reduce the pain and draw the pus to the surface.
- Swish with a mild antiseptic solution if recommended by your dentist.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers to manage the pain.
Objects Stuck in Teeth
Sometimes, objects can get lodged between teeth, causing pain and discomfort.
If you have something stuck between your teeth:
- Try to remove the object using dental floss.
- Do not use a sharp object to dislodge the object, as it can harm your gums or push the object deeper.
- If the object can’t be removed, contact your dentist for assistance.
Lost or Broken Dental Restorations
When a dental filling, crown, or bridge becomes loose or falls out, it can cause discomfort and expose the tooth.
If you lose a filling or dental restoration:
- If the area is sensitive, you can apply some over-the-counter dental cement available in drugstores to cover the space temporarily.
- Avoid chewing on the affected tooth as much as possible.
- Save the restoration if you can and take it to the dentist.
- Contact your dentist for an appointment to replace or repair the restoration.
Preventive Measures
To reduce the risk of future dental emergencies:
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or any activity with a risk of dental injury.
- Avoid biting hard objects and candies that can cause tooth damage.
- Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings to catch issues early.
Trusted Emergency Dental Care Services in Ottawa, Ontario
For dental concerns, seeking professional help is crucial.
This guide is only a starting point to help manage emergencies. Remember that professional care is always necessary to protect your oral health and overall wellness.
To receive emergency dental care in Ottawa, Ontario, reach out to us at Dow’s Lake Dental. No matter if you're sure you need help right away or not, we're happy to answer your questions and assist you with your oral health needs.