What to Do in a Dental Emergency
August 26, 2024 9:00 amA dental emergency can happen without warning. Knowing how to respond quickly can save your smile and reduce pain. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth or a severe toothache, acting fast is crucial. Here’s what to do in various dental emergencies.
Handle Carefully: If a tooth is knocked out, pick it up by the crown, not the root. Rinse it gently with water if it’s dirty, but do not scrub it.
Keep It Moist: Try to place the tooth back in its socket without forcing it. If that’s not possible, store it in milk, saliva, or a tooth preservation kit. Getting to your dentist within 30 minutes gives you the best chance of saving the tooth.
Rinse and Protect: Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. If there’s swelling, apply a cold compress to your cheek. Save any pieces of the broken tooth and bring them with you to the dentist.
Avoid Hard Foods: Until you can see your dentist, avoid chewing on the affected side. Eating soft foods can prevent further damage.
Rinse and Floss: Start by rinsing your mouth with warm water. Use dental floss to remove any food particles that may be stuck between your teeth.
Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help, but avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums as it can cause burns. If the pain persists, contact your dentist immediately.
Temporary Fix: If a filling or crown falls out, use over-the-counter dental cement or even sugar-free gum to temporarily cover the cavity. This can protect the area until you see your dentist.
Avoid Sticky Foods: To prevent further damage, avoid sticky or hard foods that could pull the filling or crown out again.
Seek Immediate Care: An abscess is a serious infection that can spread to other parts of your body. If you notice a painful, swollen bump on your gums, contact your dentist right away.
Rinse with Saltwater: To manage pain and draw out some of the infection, rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution. Mix one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gently rinse.
Knocked-Out Tooth:
Cracked or Broken Tooth:
Severe Toothache:
Lost Filling or Crown:
Abscess:
Handling Dental Emergencies at Ryan Dental in Olathe, KS
Knowing how to handle a dental emergency can make all the difference in protecting your oral health. At Ryan Dental in Olathe, KS, Dr. William Ryan and our dedicated team are here to help you navigate any urgent dental issues. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth or severe pain, we’re committed to providing prompt, compassionate care to get you back to smiling.
If you experience a dental emergency, don’t wait—contact Ryan Dental immediately! Let us help you protect your smile and relieve your pain.
Categorized in: Dental Emergencies
