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Dental emergencies can happen at any time and can be both painful and frightening. Knowing what to do in the event of a dental emergency can help to minimize discomfort and prevent further damage to your teeth and gums. In this article, we will discuss emergency dental care and what you need to know.
What Is Considered A Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any condition that requires immediate attention to alleviate severe pain, bleeding, or other symptoms. Some examples of dental emergencies include severe toothache, broken or knocked-out teeth, and bleeding gums.
Source – American Dental Association (ADA)
What To Do In A Dental Emergency?
If you experience a dental emergency, it is important to remain calm and take the appropriate steps to alleviate pain and prevent further damage. Some things you can do in a dental emergency include:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the affected area.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling.
- If a tooth is knocked out, try to reinsert it into the socket or place it in a container of milk or saliva until you can see a dentist.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, to alleviate discomfort.
Common Types Of Dental Emergencies
A dental emergency can happen at any time and can be both painful and alarming. In this article, we will discuss some common types of dental emergencies that require immediate attention from a dental professional.
Severe Toothache
A severe toothache is a common dental emergency that can be caused by a variety of factors such as a cracked tooth, tooth decay, or an abscess. If you are experiencing severe pain, it is important to seek immediate dental attention to prevent the problem from worsening.
Broken or Chipped Teeth
Broken or chipped teeth are another common dental emergency that can be caused by a fall, injury, or biting down on something hard. If you have a broken or chipped tooth, it is important to seek immediate dental attention to prevent further damage and pain.
Knocked-Out Teeth
A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention. If you have a knocked-out tooth, it is important to keep it moist and try to reinsert it into the socket. If that is not possible, put the tooth in milk or water and seek immediate dental attention.
Lost Fillings or Crowns
If you lose a filling or crown, it can cause pain and sensitivity in your tooth. This is a dental emergency that requires prompt attention to prevent further damage to the tooth.
Abscesses
An abscess is a painful swelling or bump that is filled with pus. This is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention to prevent further infection and pain. In some cases, an abscess may require a root canal or tooth extraction.
How To Prevent Dental Emergencies?
While it may not be possible to prevent all dental emergencies, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include:
- Practicing good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly.
- Wearing a mouthguard during sports or other physical activities.
- Avoiding hard, chewy, or sticky foods that can damage teeth.
- Seeking prompt treatment for dental problems, such as cavities or gum disease.
Dental emergencies can be scary and painful, but knowing what to do in the event of a dental emergency can help to minimize discomfort and prevent further damage. By practising good oral hygiene and taking steps to reduce your risk, you can help to prevent dental emergencies from occurring. And remember, if you experience a dental emergency, seek professional help as soon as possible to get the care you need.
