Dental Emergencies
As we all know accidents can happen when we least expect them, and knowing what to do can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth.
For all dental emergencies, it’s important to visit your dentist as soon as possible. Be sure to call your dentist and provide as much detail as you can about your condition. If the accident occurs when your dental office is not open, visit your local emergency room.
Here are some common dental emergencies and how to deal with them
Question: What do I do if I knock out my tooth?
Answer: For a knocked-out permanent or adult tooth, keep it moist at all times. If you can, try placing the tooth back in the socket without touching the root.
If that’s not possible, place it in between your cheek and gums, in milk, or use a tooth preservation product that has the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Then,
get to your dentist’s office right away.
Question: What do I do if my child knocks out a tooth?
Answer: If the tooth is a baby tooth, the best thing to do is find the tooth, keep it moist and get to a dentist. Your dentist can see whether the entire tooth or just part of it, came out.
Your dentist can also determine whether to implant it again. If it is an adult tooth, follow the steps listed in the previous question.
Question: What if I crack my tooth?
Answer: For a cracked tooth, immediately rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area. Put cold compresses on the face to keep any swelling down. See your dentist as soon as possible.
Question: If I bite my tongue or lip, how do I treat it?
Answer: If you bite your tongue or lip, clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress. See your dentist or go to the emergency room if there is excessive bleeding, the bleeding won’t stop or you are in a lot of pain.
Question: How do I treat a toothache?
Answer: For toothaches, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between your teeth. Do not put aspirin on your aching tooth or gums; it may burn the gum tissue. If the pain persists, contact your dentist.
Question: What if I think my jaw is broken?
Answer: If you think your jaw is broken apply cold compresses to control the swelling. Go to your dentist or a hospital emergency department immediately.
Question: How do I remove an object that’s stuck in my mouth or teeth?
Answer: For objects stuck in the mouth, try to gently remove them with floss but do not try to remove them with a sharp or pointed instrument. The item might be painful or cause an infection, so see your dentist if you cannot remove it.
Pediatric and Orthodontic care at Adventure Dental
From your child’s first visit to regular check-ups and orthodontic treatment, Adventure Dental makes going to the dentist and orthodontist fun for kids and adults! for more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Call for an appointment with Adventure Dental today at (360) 604-9000
