A dental emergency can encompass various issues, here are some of the most common ones along with at-home solutions for temporary care:
Toothache: Use over-the-counter pain relief, a warm salt water rinse or apply a cold compress. Gently use dental floss to ensure that there is no food or other debris caught between the teeth. Avoid heat, spicy foods, and do not touch the affected area. Elevate your head when laying down to reduce blood flow to the affected area.
Gum Infection: Use over-the-counter pain relief, a warm salt water rinse or apply a cold compress. Avoid hot, cold, spicy or acidic foods and drinks. Use antiseptic mouthwashes to reduce bacterial growth and soothe affected area. Keep the area dry.
Bleeding or other Trauma: Apply pressure to stop the bleeding and keep your head elevated to reduce blood flow to the affected area. Avoid touching the area. Use a salt water rinse, cold compress, and over-the-counter pain relief.
Jaw Pain: Eat soft foods and avoid excessive jaw movements. Apply warm or cold compresses. Use over-the-counter pain relivers.
Chipped or Broken Tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water and use a cold compress to prevent/reduce swelling. If possible, save the piece of tooth that has broken off, place it in a container with milk or saline solution and bring it with you to your dental appointment. Use ibuprofen or Tylenol for pain. Contact our office to schedule an appointment immediately.
Knocked Out Tooth: Quick action can save a knocked out tooth and prevent infection. Rinse your mouth with water and apply a cold compress to prevent/reduce swelling. If you are unable to place the tooth back into its socket, don’t let it dry out, place the tooth in a container with a lid and fill with milk, saline solution or saliva. Contact our office or go to the emergency room immediately.
Crown Broken Off: Save the broken piece (or pieces). This can help assess the need for repair or replacement. Temporary solutions include using over-the-counter dental wax to cover the area temporarily. Be careful when brushing and flossing around the affected area. Do not attempt to fix the crown with flue or other adhesives.
Bitten Tongue, Cheek or Lip: Clean the area gently with a cloth and apply a cold compress to reduce any swelling. If it is bleeding and does not stop, go to the emergency room immediately.
Objects Caught between Teeth: Try to remove the object with dental floss. Do not try to remove the object with a sharp or pointed object. If you are unable to remove it, call our office.
If you experience severe symptoms or if the situation worsens, such as excessive bleeding, intense pain, or significant swelling, seek urgent care immediately. Contact our office to talk to your doctor or visit the nearest emergency room to ensure you receive the appropriate treatment as soon as possible. After-hours emergency numbers are available for our doctors.