What to Do in the Event of a Dental Emergency

When disaster strikes and you experience a dental emergency, it can be a shocking experience. However, it’s always best to remain calm and act right away to protect your oral health. Even a knocked-out tooth can potentially be saved and placed into your mouth if you take the proper measures.

 

But what are these appropriate measures? Because time is often of the essence in such situations, it is important to be prepared for a dental emergency before it happens.

What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?

If you are experiencing some kind of dental issue, your first step should be to determine whether you’re in need of immediate attention. Seek dental care if you have:

 

• Sudden unexplainable tooth pain
• Swelling in the jaw or mouth
• Gums that won’t stop bleeding
• A knocked-out tooth
• Tooth damage
• Loose teeth
• Exposed nerves
• A tooth abscess
• An object lodged in the teeth

 

When in doubt, it is always best to reach out to a dental professional. If you’re experiencing any of the above issues, or if you’re unsure of whether you need emergency dental care, contact your dentist right away.

What Should I Do When a Dental Emergency Occurs?

If you are unable to call your dentist right away in a dental emergency, have someone call for you, if possible. Follow any instructions your dentist gives you.

If you have a damaged or knocked-out tooth, try to locate the missing tooth or piece of tooth. With the missing tooth or piece of tooth in hand, it is possible to restore your smile without the need for dental restorations.

When handling a knocked-out tooth, it is important not to touch the root. Handle it by the crown only, gently rinse it with water, and then try to place it back into its socket.

If the tooth doesn’t stay, you can hold it in between your cheek and your gums or place it in milk. Contact your dentist right away.

How to Avoid a Dental Emergency

The best way to avoid the need for emergency dental care is to take the necessary precautions to avoid a dental emergency in the first place. While there is no foolproof plan to protect your teeth and gums, there are plenty of measures you can take that will significantly reduce the risk of injury, including:

• Wearing a mouthguard during contact sports
• Wearing a seat belt when in an automobile
• Keeping your living space free of obstructions
• Avoiding chewing on hard items
• Using your teeth only for eating
• Practicing good oral hygiene
• Seeing your dentist once every six months

Keep in mind that not all dental emergencies are related to traumatic dental injuries. Oral health issues can also lead to things like severe toothaches, tooth damage, and dental abscesses.

That’s why it’s crucial to brush twice a day, floss once daily, and see your dentist regularly so you can catch any issues before they become serious.

Experiencing a Dental Emergency?

Diana Rodriguez & Associates can provide you with the care you need to restore your oral health. We work with most PPO dental insurance plans and also offer payment plans through Lending Club, Ally, and Care Credit that often begin with 0% interest and include low monthly payments. Contact us today.