What To Do In A Dental Emergency

We all know we are supposed to brush and floss to maintain our healthy smile.  But do you know what to do in a dental emergency?  We don’t plan to have our teeth chipped, broken, or even knocked out, but unfortunately it sometimes happens. Taking the proper steps in this situation can determine whether or not the tooth can be saved. It is important to see the dentist as soon as possible after one of these dental emergencies.  The Mouth Healthy website from the American Dental Association (ADA)  provides some tips on what to do before you get there.

• Knocked out tooth:  It is best to keep your tooth moist until you are able to see the dentist.  You can put it back in the socket without touching the root, just put it in your mouth, or possibly put it in some milk in order to keep it moist. A tooth preservation product can also be used to keep it moist, and it is a good idea to have this in your first aid kit for this type of emergency. According to WebMD, your chances of saving your knocked-out tooth will be best if you are able to see the dentist within one hour of it happening.
• Cracked tooth: The ADA recommends rinsing your mouth with warm water to make sure it is clean.  Applying a cold compress will also help to reduce any swelling.
• Toothache:  Try rinsing your mouth with warm water and flossing to remove any trapped food, but if pain persists see your dentist. Although you may be tempted to put aspirin or another painkiller on your gums, the ADA advises against this as it could burn your gum tissue.
• Broken jaw:  Apply a cold compress and contact your dentist. If your dentist is not available, you will need to go to the emergency room.
• Object Stuck in Teeth:  Try to floss, but never stick any sharp object in your mouth.  If you are unable to remove the object, wait to have the dentist remove it.

If the pain or injury is severe, or if there is excessive bleeding, you should call 911 or go directly to the nearest emergency room.  For other dental emergencies, Texas Dental can help.  While we hope you don’t have a dental emergency, we do keep time in our schedule for them at each of our two convenient locations.  Please contact us to see how we can help.