When you least expect it, issues can arise which will involve you needing to seek emergency dental care. Whether you've knocked out a tooth, you're experiencing a bad toothache that just won't seem to go away, or you've damaged your braces, emergency dental care is an essential step to take to properly maintain oral health care.
Here are some tips to consider keeping in mind that you can practice at home depending on the issue that you're seeking emergency dental care for.
TOOTHACHE
Toothaches are one of the most common issues that people face and try to seek help getting rid of. If you are experiencing this, the first step you should take is to thoroughly clean around the affected tooth and vigorously rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Also consider using dental floss to help dislodge any loose food particles around the tooth.
Some toothaches can be so severe that they cause your face to swell. If this happens, apply either a cold compress or baggie filled with ice to the swollen area. One thing you should avoid taking is aspirin; instead, you will want to take acetaminophen for any pain. If the issues persist, contact your dentist immediately.
KNOCKED-OUT TOOTH
Many different issues at home can cause people to accidentally knock out a tooth, which is an issue that you will want to immediately seek a dentist for. If this happens, the first and most important step to take is to find the tooth when it comes out. While you will want to also rinse the tooth, you will not want to thoroughly clean it or repeatedly handle it. If you are unable to get the tooth back into its socket, transport the tooth to the dentist in a cup of either water or milk.
BROKEN TOOTH
There are also issues that can cause a tooth to get broken, ranging from tooth decay to being struck, which will also require immediate attention from a dentist. Should this situation occur, you will first want to rinse the area with warm water to get rid of any dirt or other debris causes by the tooth getting broken. Though the area will likely not be swollen, you will still want to place a cold compress or baggie filled with ice cubes near the affected area. Try to locate and save any and all broken fragments from the tooth.
BROKEN BRACES
If you have braces and find that a portion of them have been broken, there are a few steps that you can take. Firstly, if you are able to safely remove any broken wires, do so. However, if you are not able to do this, you will want to cover the affected area with objects such as either cotton balls or gauze pads. If you find that any protruding wires have become stuck in your gums, tongue, or cheek, do not attempt to remove them. Instead, seek immediate medical attention.
These are some of the many useful tips to consider when it comes to handling issues with emergency dental care at home. It is recommended that you contact your dentist, such as at Crest Hill Family Dental, with any questions or concerns that you may have.
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