There’s no need to worry if you’re having a dental emergency: just check out this handy guide from Waco Dental with teeth first-aid tips.
What Are Dental Emergencies, And How Can I Handle Them?
If you have a toothache, you may not be sure what to do. While not all dental pain requires emergency dental services, it could be the first sign of a bigger issue and lead to more serious dental problems. It is important to call your dentist when you have a prolonged toothache so they can help you decide whether you need to be seen immediately.
It is important to be aware that dental issues can become more severe if left untreated. That is why it is crucial to distinguish between a routine dental appointment and an emergency. Generally, a dental emergency is a situation that puts your life or your tooth’s life at risk, such as a tooth or mouth injury that bleeds, a loose or lost tooth due to trauma, a jaw injury, painful swelling around the mouth, or a severe toothache. It is essential to remember that dental emergencies can come unexpectedly and that is why regular checkups and cleanings every six months, x-rays, and consultations with your dentist are recommended.
If you are in severe pain, are bleeding excessively, think you may have an infection, or have a cracked or damaged tooth, it is essential that you reach out to your dentist for emergency dental care. Even if you are not sure if your situation is a dental emergency, it is best to contact the office as soon as possible for an appointment.
If you experience any of the following dental issues, you should seek immediate treatment: chipping or breaking a tooth, a toothache accompanied by swelling, a tooth being knocked out, a partially dislodged or extruded tooth, a lost filling or dental crown, or an abscess or tooth infection.
However, issues such as a filling falling out, a slightly chipped tooth, or a broken wire on braces are not as critical and can wait until you can book an appointment with your dentist. Make sure to follow your dentist’s instructions on what action to take.
What Are Ways I Can Cope With My Dental Emergency At-Home, Before My Appointment?
- Create a mouthwash with disinfecting properties. To help reduce swelling and irritation, dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a mug of warm water and use the mixture as a warm mouthwash.
- Preserve a knocked-out tooth. In case of a tooth being knocked out, place it in a glass of milk and call your dentist right away. The sooner you get to the dentist, the higher the chances of saving the tooth.
- Check in the mirror. If you’re having pain near a single tooth, it’s possible something is wedged between your teeth or lodged in the gum. Have a look in the mirror and then floss the spot gently.
- Use cold comfort. To reduce swelling, numb irritation and stop any bleeding, apply a cold compress.
- Stop by the drugstore. Take the recommended dose of over-the-counter pain relief medicine to ease the discomfort.
Waco Dental Is The Right Choice For General And Emergency Dental Services
At Waco Dental, we’re committed to providing comfort-focused care to help keep your teeth healthy. It is time to get the smile you want with our wide range of cosmetic, general, and restorative dental services available. Dr. Martin has 19 years of experience in dental treatments such as white fillings, crowns, bridges, veneers, implants, dentures and partials, root canals, extractions, and Invisalign. Call and schedule an appointment today at 254-754-3505 or visit our Waco, TX location.
