A dental emergency is any dental issue that needs immediate attention. For example, you can get involved in an accident that knocks out a tooth or something. In this case, the faster you seek medical help, the quicker the problem will be solved.
It is essential to know an emergency dentist because it saves you stress and panic during an emergency. You should first call your dentist for further instructions if you are experiencing a dental emergency. Dental cases that can require an emergency dentist include:
Severe Soft Tissue Injury
Injuries to the soft tissues, like gums, cheeks, lips, and tongue, can cause bleeding. You can do the following to control bleeding before you get to a dentist:
- Use a mild salt-water solution to rinse your mouth.
- Apply pressure to the bleeding site using moistened gauze or a caffeinated tea bag. Tea has tannic acid, which shrinks blood vessels and inhibits bleeding.
- Hold a cold compress to the outside of your cheek or mouth in the affected area to relieve pain or control bleeding.
- See your dentist immediately if the bleeding does not stop.
Lost Or Broken Dental Restoration
In some cases, old dental restorations can become dislodged or fall out. If you have a broken or missing filling, stick a piece of sugarless gum into the cavity. You should see your dentist as soon as possible.
If you have a broken dental crown or bridge, make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible. You should carry the restoration with you. If possible, put your restoration back in place. Before doing so, coat the inner surface with an over-the-counter dental cement or toothpaste.
Dental Abscess
Abscesses are pimple-like infections or swollen areas in the space between your teeth and gums or around the root of a tooth. An abscess can destroy the tissue and surrounding teeth. The infection can cause swelling of your face or jaw if left untreated. You should see your dentist immediately if you have a dental abscess.
Dislodged Tooth
If your tooth is partially dislodged, you should see a dentist immediately. Before you reach the dentist’s office, apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth to relieve pain. If needed, take over-the-counter pain relievers, like naproxen and acetaminophen.
Knocked-Out Tooth
Take the tooth, hold it by the crown, and rinse off the root with water. Do not remove tissue fragments or scrap it. Try to place your tooth back in its socket. Do not force it into the socket. If it is not possible, put your tooth in a small container of milk.
