Emergency Dentistry
Many patients brush off a toothache as a temporary pain that will subside on its own. While this is sometimes the case, persistent pain is often indicative of a serious problem which will only grow worse if left untreated. Toothache and pain in the gums are often signs of infection which may spread to other parts of the mouth or body. Emergency dental care should be addressed by a licensed professional at the earliest opportunity.
Common situations requiring emergency dental care include:
Toothache – Persistent toothache may be a symptom of serious damage or infection. See a dentist as soon as possible to determine the cause, but in the time between there are some methods which can relieve pain. Rinse with warm water, carefully remove any food particles that may be causing pain, and apply an ice pack or other cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling. Do not use aspirin as it and other painkillers can cause further damage to gum tissues.
Infection
– Damaged teeth are prone to infection which may spread throughout the mouth or body. An abscess is an infection near the tooth’s root or between teeth and gums. An abscess should be treated as soon as possible to prevent further damage to teeth and tissue. Pimple-like swelling on the gum is a sign of abscess. If bleeding persists and a dentist cannot be reached, go to the hospital emergency room.
Loose or missing teeth
– If a toot his knocked out, rinse it gently in water and place in a small container of milk or a specialized gel. If possible, see a dentist within the hour as a tooth is most likely to be returned to its original socket without complication if treated within an hour of falling out. If a tooth is only partially dislodged, avoid touching it. Apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth to reduce pain.
Damaged teeth
– Save any pieces from a chipped or broken tooth you are able to. Rinse with warm water to rinse out any broken pieces. If bleeding, apply gauze for 10 minutes. If bleeding persists, apply pressure until it ends changing gauze as necessary. A cold compress can be used to reduce swelling and pain.
Lost crown or filling
– To temporarily seal the cavity, use a piece of sugarless gum or over-the-counter dental cement. Place a lost crown in a sealed container. Take it with you to the dentist. To relieve pain temporarily, apply a cotton swab treated with a small amount of clove oil. If possible, place the crown over the tooth using a dental adhesive like toothpaste or dental cement. Do not use glue or other products not approved for oral use.
Objects lodged between teeth
– Food particles and other objects jammed between teeth can cause significant pain. Try dislodging the object gently with floss. Do not scratch at gums or teeth as this can cause further damage. See a dentist as soon as possible if the object cannot be removed.
Damage to braces, bands, and brackets
– Broken wires should be repositioned if possible. Prevent the end of the wire from poking by attaching orthodontic wax or a cotton ball. Do not cut the wire as this risks swallowing or inhaling the severed piece. Orthodontic wax can also secure loose braces fro a time. If bands are loose, save the band to be cemented or replaced as soon as you can see an orthodontist.
Soft-tissue injuries
– These injuries include damaged tongue, gums, lips, or cheeks. Symptoms include pain or bleeding. Use a mild salt-water solution to rinse the mouth. This may help stop the bleeding. Cotton gauze may also be applied until bleeding stops.
If you are experiencing any of these dental emergencies and require emergency dental care, contact Advanced Dentistry right away and we will fit you in as soon as possible.
