Top 10 Dental Emergencies and What To Do About Them

Dental emergencies can happen unexpectedly and require prompt attention to prevent further damage and alleviate pain. Here are the top 10 dental emergencies and what you can do about them before seeking professional dental care:

1. Toothache: Rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss to remove any debris that might be causing the pain. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum or tooth, as it can cause irritation.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth: If a permanent tooth is knocked out, gently rinse it (without scrubbing), and try to reinsert it into the socket. If not possible, place the tooth in milk or saliva and see a dentist immediately. Time is critical for successful reimplantation.
3. Chipped or Broken Tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water and save any broken tooth fragments. Use a cold compress on the area to reduce swelling. See a dentist as soon as possible.
4. Loose Tooth: Gently attempt to push the tooth back into its original position. Bite down on a piece of gauze to hold it in place and see a dentist immediately.
5. Lost Filling or Crown: Use over-the-counter dental cement, denture adhesive, or sugar-free gum to temporarily cover the exposed area until you can see a dentist.
6. Abscess or Swelling: An abscess is a serious infection that requires immediate attention. Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater, and see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading.
7. Objects Caught Between Teeth: Gently try to remove the object using dental floss. Do not use sharp or pointed objects, as they can damage your gums or teeth.
8. Broken Braces or Wires: If a wire is poking or causing irritation, try using the eraser end of a pencil to gently push the wire into a more comfortable position. If that’s not possible, cover the end with orthodontic wax and see your orthodontist.
9. Bleeding After Extraction: Bite down on a clean gauze pad to control the bleeding. Change the gauze if needed. If bleeding persists, contact your dentist.
10. Tongue or Lip Injury: Clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If bleeding is severe or doesn’t stop, seek medical attention.

Remember that these are temporary measures to manage the situation until you can see a dentist. Dental emergencies require professional care, so contact your dentist or an emergency dental clinic as soon as possible for appropriate treatment. If you’re unsure about the severity of your situation, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional help.