You’ll set your teeth up for the long term when you visit the dentist regularly. But even the best home care practices can be upset by something strange and unforeseen. In the case of a dental emergency, what should you do?
The longer you stall in seeking treatment, the worse it may become. But how do you know where to seek help? How can you get help fast? What about dental insurance?
Before you run for the pharmacy, read this guide; soon, you’ll have the information you need to act fast.
Acting Quickly for Prompt Treatment
Immediately contact your dentist and explain the situation. If your dentist isn’t available, go to the nearest hospital or local dentist office. If you cannot go to a hospital or dental office, call your local emergency room.
Also, it is important to clean any wounds and stop any bleeding. If an object is lodged between teeth, do not try to use any device or method to remove it. If needed, use over-the-counter pain medication to help ease any discomfort.
Bring any medical records you have with you and be prepared to discuss the medical history of yourself or the person who is suffering from the emergency. It is important to note what triggered the dental emergency so that you can get the most proper treatment. Take note of any pain or discomfort experienced and follow the instructions of your dentist or healthcare provider.
Also, if transportation is an obstacle, contact your local health department or medical society to get aid. Finally, if the bleeding persists, contact your physician for further instructions. Act quickly for prompt treatment.
At-Home Remedies for Minor Emergencies
If the issue is a toothache, the first step is to rinse the mouth with warm water to help flush out any bacteria or food that may be lodged in the infected area. Over-the-counter medicine for toothaches can also help. To stop any bleeding, apply a cotton pad or piece of gauze and gently press down for a few minutes.
If a filling or crown falls out, locate the piece and rinse it off with warm water. In the event that the debris is too small to retrieve, contact your dentist.
Minor swelling can be controlled by applying a cold compress. For other minor issues, such as a chip or lost filling, contact your dentist for further instructions.
It is best to avoid temporary DIY repairs and allow your dentist to assess the extent of the damage. With proper care and attention from a dental professional, a minor dental emergency can be resolved with minimal issues.
Types of Professional Treatment for More Serious Emergencies
If you experience a serious dental emergency, there are several options available for professional treatment. Emergency dental clinics are available for emergency treatment, and they may give x-rays, fillings, and other emergency treatments.
Depending on the problem, dentists can give many treatments, such as root canal therapy, crowns, and surgical procedures. More serious dental problems, such as avulsed or broken teeth, or soft tissue injuries, may must treatment at the hospital, or even reconstructive surgery.
Also, an emergency visit to the ER may be warranted if your dental emergency is associated with trauma to the face or jaw region or if you suffer from a severe infection or abscess. In cases of trauma to the mouth or teeth, splints and wires can be used to stabilize teeth and help them heal.
The treatment depends on the severity and urgency of the tooth injury: antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection and pain relievers may be necessary to manage discomfort. With proper and immediate care, it is sometimes possible to save and restore teeth and injured soft tissue and prevent long-term complications.
Prevention Strategies to Avoid Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies can be both painful and inconvenient. It is important to take preventative measures to avoid dental emergencies. This preventative dental care includes brushing and flossing daily to remove bacteria, plaque, and food particles from the teeth and gums.
Fluoride mouthwash and doing so with a soft-bristled toothbrush can help reduce the risk of dental emergencies. Regular dental check-ups every 6 months to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy is also a great way to avoid dental emergencies. Furthermore, trying to avoid damage to your teeth and gums is essential.
Also, you should wear a mouthguard when playing contact sports, as this helps protect your teeth. It is important to avoid vices such as smoking and drinking, as this can increase your risk of oral health issues.
Finally, limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks will help reduce damage caused by acid erosion and tooth decay. Taking these preventative strategies into consideration can help you avoid dental emergencies and keep your teeth and gums healthy in the long run.
What to Do During Dental Emergency
It’s important to be knowledgeable and diligent when it comes to dental emergencies. If you experience a dental emergency, seek help as soon as possible. Call your dentist, and if necessary, go to the nearest hospital.
Prompt care from a qualified professional may give relief from pain and prevent further damage. Take proactive steps now to protect your dental health and smile! Visit your dentist for a check-up soon.
Still, if you find yourself unable to see a dentist during a dental emergency, it’s good to know what to do. For more great tips, please read through our other blog posts.
