A dental emergency can be painful and scary when a person is not prepared. Fortunately, there are many things that can be done to ease a person’s pain and possibly save their tooth when they seek the services of a quality emergency dentist. Therefore, it is best to keep in mind the following dental tips in case of emergency to protect a person’s mouth and teeth until they can see our dentists.
Fractured or Broken Tooth
When a tooth is fractured or broken, it is important to act quickly. If there are any pieces of the tooth that have fallen out of the mouth, these should be saved to take to the dentist. Any bleeding can be controlled by holding gauze in the mouth. A salt water rinse can also be helpful for cleansing the mouth and reducing swelling.
Bleeding Gums
Gums that bleed during brushing are often a sign of gum disease. Our dentists recommend that a person with bleeding gums should have regular cleanings and practice proper oral hygiene techniques designed for reducing plaque build-up. Although bleeding gums are usually a sign of gum disease, they can sometimes represent a more serious problem. Therefore, it is important to keep a dentist informed of any unusual bleeding.
Toothache
Emergency dentists frequently see patients who are complaining of a toothache. When a tooth becomes infected or injured, it can cause unrelenting pain. To practice self-care until the tooth can be examined by a dentist, avoid eating with the painful tooth. Avoiding hot and cold drinks is another one of the most important dental tips in case of emergency that everyone should follow.
Knocked Out Tooth
A knocked out tooth should be preserved by placing it into a solution of saline, milk or water. Bleeding can be controlled by using gauze or a wet tea bag. Emergency dentists will then encourage you to come into their office as soon as possible so that the proper treatment can be implemented to try and save the tooth.
