What to Do in Case of a Dental Emergency

1. Severe Toothache

• • Rinse Your Mouth: Use warm water to rinse your mouth thoroughly.
  • Floss Gently: Sometimes, food particles stuck between teeth can cause pain. Gently floss to remove any debris.
  • Avoid Painkillers on the Gums: Do not place aspirin or other painkillers directly on the gums as it can cause irritation.
  • Apply a Cold Compress: If there is swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek.
  • Contact Your Dentist: Seek professional help as soon as possible to identify the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

2. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)

• • Handle with Care: Pick up the tooth by the crown (the part that is visible in the mouth), not the root.
  • Rinse the Tooth: If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with water. Do not scrub or remove any attached tissue.
  • Reinsert if Possible: Try to place the tooth back into the socket. If not possible, keep it moist by placing it in a container of milk or a saline solution.
  • Seek Immediate Dental Care: The sooner you see a dentist, the better the chances of saving the tooth.

3. Broken or Chipped Tooth

• • Rinse Your Mouth: Clean the area with warm water.
  • Save the Pieces: If possible, collect any broken pieces of the tooth.
  • Apply Gauze for Bleeding: If there is bleeding, apply gauze to the area for about 10 minutes or until it stops.
  • Use a Cold Compress: To reduce swelling, apply a cold compress to the affected area.
  • Visit Your Dentist: Promptly see your dentist to repair the damage and prevent further issues.

4. Lost Filling or Crown

• • Temporary Measures: Use over-the-counter dental cement or sugarless gum to temporarily cover the cavity if a filling is lost.
  • Keep the Crown: If a crown falls off, clean it and try to reattach it using dental cement. Do not use glue.
  • See Your Dentist: Schedule an appointment to have the filling or crown properly replaced.

5. Abscessed Tooth

• • Rinse with Salt Water: Mix salt with warm water and rinse your mouth to help reduce pain and draw out infection.
  • Avoid Touching the Area: Do not try to drain the abscess or touch it excessively.
  • Seek Immediate Care: An abscess is a serious infection that requires prompt dental treatment to prevent the spread of infection.

6. Soft Tissue Injuries (Gums, Lips, Tongue)

• • Clean the Area: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
  • Apply Pressure: Use a clean cloth or gauze to apply pressure to the bleeding area.
  • Use a Cold Compress: Reduce swelling and pain by applying a cold compress.
  • Seek Professional Help: If bleeding persists or the injury is severe, visit your dentist or go to the emergency room.

7. Broken Orthodontic Appliances

• • Inspect the Damage: Assess the extent of the damage to braces or retainers.
  • Cover Sharp Edges: Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges that might cause injury.
  • Avoid Further Damage: Refrain from eating hard or sticky foods until repairs are made.
  • Contact Your Orthodontist: Schedule a repair appointment as soon as possible.