How to Deal With a Dental Emergency

Posted by: Dr. Sirakian Categories: Dentistry

Ouch! Our teeth have an easy way of becoming a problem if not cared for properly. And if we don’t seek help to treat simple problems, they can turn quite dangerous. Here are a couple of issues that can arise and simple explanations on what to do immediately if they occur!

If you are experiencing a bleeding tongue cause from biting it, simply apply a cold compress. This will help reduce any swelling. But if you have painful swelling, you may have an infected area (abscess) that can cause serious issues and needs immediate dental attention.
As for teeth, if you break a tooth, call your dentist immediately, and apply that cold compress after gargling some warm water. If the tooth is just loose, however, take some over-the-counter pain reliever (like Tylenol or Advil). You should still call your dentist and get into the office as soon as possible to see if it is able to be put back into place. If your tooth is severely aching, be careful and floss in between to make sure nothing is stuck and rinse thoroughly. Same goes for objects being stuck in the teeth: if it’s something small, try diligent, thorough flossing. If you can’t, or if the object is causing you serious pain, call your dentist.
Now as for any objects actually on your teeth that fall off, such as loose fillings, crowns, or damaged braces: put the crown or filling or brace that fell off in a safe place, so that it possibly could be reapplied, and immediately schedule an appointment with your dentist. You can apply warm water and oil to the area to decrease sensitivity.

We understand that these are just a few of the issues that can arise. Note that all require you to seek future dental help if it is severe enough, but until you can get yourself to the dentist, try these suggestions to ease the pain.

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