5 most common dental emergencies and their treatment explained by top dentists near you

Toothache is usually the first sign of some kind of dental issue. It can take the form of severe throbbing ache very soon if not treated on the spot and cause a lot of misery. That and other dental emergencies such as tooth decay, gum disease, and broken tooth are some of the most common dental emergencies experienced by a majority of the population.

While prevention is better than cure, it is important to know how to deal with a dental emergency to prevent further deterioration of teeth. Let us take a look at what should be our fast and immediate response to a number of dental emergencies and how to administer first aid.

1. Toothache

• Toothache is a sign of underlying severe conditions such as dental decay and cavities etc. If the toothache is accompanied by bleeding and swelling then it is an indicator of a serious underlying disease. In such cases, don’t take aspirin and other painkillers. Their contact with affected gums can deteriorate the gum tissue. Rather apply a cold press from the outside of the cheek and visit a dental clinic as soon as possible.

2. Chipped or Broken Teeth

A broken tooth can be caused due to an accidental fall, injury, or biting/chewing too hard. It not only mars the perfect smile but can hurt a lot too. To prevent the pain, rinse your mouth with warm water and place gauze to stop the bleeding. Apply a cold compress from the outside on that part of the face where the injury has occurred. It will relieve some pain and swelling.

• The best way to deal with chipped teeth is by avoiding eating crunchy foods and by being conscious of biting down hard.

3. Knocked-out Teeth

If a tooth is knocked out by accident or injury, you should do two things:

• Place a gauze at the site of injury to stop the bleeding
• Rinse off the root of the knocked-out tooth gently. Do not scrub to get rid of the tissues which may still be attached to the tooth.

It may not be possible to reinsert the teeth by yourself. So till the time you get to a dentist, place the tooth in a cup of milk or water that contains a pinch of salt in it. This will preserve the tooth from decaying. Consult a dentist immediately to get the tooth fixed inside your mouth.

4. Lost Filling or Crown

• Dental fillings and crowns are restorative treatments for dental cavities and decay. Sometimes the crowns come off due to hard biting action. The exposed filling is prone to damage and it may come out as well. Seek immediate dental care to get the filling and crown fixed. In the meantime, place the filling and crown in a zip-top bag to prevent it from contamination and also from losing it.

Till the time the filling and crown are not reinserted, avoid chewing from the side which contains the exposed teeth. You can also place sugarless gum at the place of filling to prevent reinfection.

5. Bleeding and Pain Post Tooth Extraction

• After undergoing tooth extraction surgery, some bleeding and pain are expected. But if bleeding persists even after an hour, then you should revisit your doctor. To stop the flow of the bleeding, place a gauze pad at the site of the extraction and bite down on it to apply pressure on the site of extraction.

In the meantime, do not rinse, drink, suck, spit and smoke as these actions might exacerbate the bleeding.

Visit Icon Dental Center for all dental emergencies if you are residing in Seattle and Everett. We have the best dental care available in your area.