HANDLING 5 COMMON DENTAL EMERGENCIES

1) Handling A Toothache

It could something as simple as a lodged kernel of popcorn or as serious as infection, but either way, toothaches can be very painful indeed. We suggest you first clean your mouth out with warm water then delicately floss around a suspected tooth to remove any food that may have wedged in there. If neither of those remedies alleviates the pain, take an ibuprofen for symptom relief and call us for an emergency appointment.

2) Handling A Broken Tooth

If you break a piece of your tooth off, it may leave a jagged edge, but there’s no need for alarm. You won’t necessarily lose your tooth. The first thing to do is contact us immediately. The second thing is to clean your mouth with warm water. The third step is to apply a cold compress to the area to minimize any swelling. There are wax like substances available at your local drug store to temporarily cover any jagged edges. Finally, if you feel pain, take an ibuprofen not an aspirin. An aspirin can increase the risk of heavy bleeding.

3) Handling A Broken Jaw

If you are struck hard on the jaw and feel pain or stiffness afterwards, and especially if you’re unable to close your mouth or your bite feels “off”, you may have a fracture. Apply a cold compress to the area to minimize any swelling, then call us immediately or go to nearby hospital emergency room.

4) Handling A Knocked Out Tooth

If one of your permanent teeth has been knocked out, retrieve it immediately (holding it by the top part, not the root) and gently rinse it with a saline solution or milk, and place it in your mouth for safe keeping. Do not rinse it in tap water, typically contains chlorine that can damage the root. Place the tooth in a wet towel or washcloth so as not to lose it and to keep it moist. If you can, gently place the tooth back in its socket until you get professional help. Then call our office for an emergency appointment…or to visit a nearby hospital emergency room.