Dental emergencies can be unsettling or even downright scary. Thankfully, by staying calm and knowing what to do when an emergency strikes, we can dramatically reduce pain in the moment and boost the chances of a fast and complete recovery.
Here are three common dental emergencies and what you should do if they arise.
Knocked-Out Teeth
Losing an adult tooth, whether from injury or decay, is an emergency. When a permanent tooth is knocked out, it's crucial to recover it without touching the root. Gently rinse the tooth with water, without scrubbing, and try to place it back in its socket in the jaw.
If you cannot reinsert the tooth, store it in a container of milk or a saline solution to preserve it before seeking dental care as soon as possible. Immediate and effective action increases the dentist’s chances of saving the tooth.
Broken or Chipped Teeth
A chipped or broken tooth can be painful and elevate the risk of serious long-term structural damage. If you break or chip a tooth, first rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Then, use a cold compress or ice pack on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling and numb any pain. If there’s any bleeding, apply gauze to the area until it stops.
Contact your dentist right away to have it repaired. Until you get professional care, avoid using the damaged tooth for biting or chewing. The sooner you get treatment, the greater the chances of fully restoring the function and appearance of your tooth.
Severe and Unrelenting Toothache
A severe, persistent toothache often signals underlying problems like infection or decay. To alleviate discomfort, rinse your mouth with warm water to dislodge any trapped particles that might contribute to pain, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Also, until you get to a dentist, you can also take over-the-counter pain relievers for temporary relief. Even with short-term relief, however, it’s important to reach out to your dentist as soon as possible.
A Compassionate, Top-Quality Care for Dental Emergencies in Decatur
If you’re in the Decatur area and experiencing a dental emergency, or simply want to be prepared “just in case”, dentist Dr. Bret Jerger and our friendly, compassionate, and knowledgeable team are here to help in your moment of need!