Handling Dental Emergencies: What You Need To Know
Published On: September 29, 2023
Do you know what to do in a dental emergency? Do you know if your dentist offers emergency dental appointments? If not, do you know where to find the nearest emergency dentist?
The truth is dental emergencies can catch you off guard. It is crucial to be prepared in the event of a dental emergency because not knowing how to handle the situation while experiencing pain can be one of the most agonising things you can go through.
At With U Dental, we always advise our patients to seek prompt dental care during an emergency. We know that remaining calm may be the last thing on your mind when you’re in pain, but acting promptly can make a world of difference. It will not only help ease the pain and discomfort but will also help prevent serious dental problems like tooth loss or infections. So, keep reading for important insights on how to respond when faced with a dental emergency.
What Counts As A Dental Emergency?
Here’s a quick look at what actually qualifies as a dental emergency:
- Severe pain in teeth, gums or jaws
- Bleeding gums
- Chipped, cracked or broken teeth
- Facial swelling
- Broken dental restorations
- Abscesses
- Accidents or injuries resulting in broken or dislodged teeth
While it can be tempting to wait it out, delaying treatment during a dental emergency will only lead to more significant dental problems like severe infections and tooth loss, which can also affect your overall health.
Whether you’re an existing or new patient, we offer emergency dental services at With U Dental to help relieve you of any pain effectively and quickly.
How To Handle a Dental Emergency
Knowing the basic steps on how to handle an emergency can make a huge difference in alleviating pain and preventing further damage. So, here’s a basic guide on what you should do when faced with a dental emergency:
Control Bleeding Or Swelling
If there is any bleeding, the first thing you need to do is to control the bleeding. Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water and apply pressure to the affected area with a sterile gauze or clean cloth to stop the bleeding. If bleeding persists, make your way to the nearest emergency room ASAP!
If you notice swelling around the mouth, the best thing to do is to apply a cold compress against the outside of your cheek where the swelling is noticeable.
Preserve The Fragments Of Your Dislodged Tooth
If you have a dislodged tooth, try to locate the fragments of the tooth. When you do, gently handle it by the crown. Avoid holding it by the root (the part of the tooth that lies below the gum) to prevent further damage, scraping or rubbing away essential fragments.
Then, rinse the tooth gently with water without scrubbing it or removing any attached tissue. Store the fragments of your tooth carefully in a sterile container with milk or contact solution to prevent it from drying out. This will increase the possibility for us to put the large fragments of your teeth back together.
Contact Our Dental Clinic
Reach out to our friendly team at With U Dental immediately to request an emergency dental appointment. When you explain the nature of your emergency, our friendly team will provide instructions or recommendations on managing the situation until you come in to receive professional dental care.
Manage Discomfort
There are a few ways to ease discomfort and pain while waiting for your emergency dental appointment. You can either apply a cold compress to the affected area or gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Consider over-the-counter pain medication to alleviate the discomfort if the pain is severe.
Remember, prompt action is key in dental emergencies. Being informed about common dental emergencies can help you act swiftly and handle the situation effectively. However, you should not delay seeking professional dental care. Only a dentist can accurately diagnose and treat a dental problem effectively. Plus, the above mentioned measures are only meant to provide temporary relief until you see the dentist. No matter the nature of your dental emergency, we are here to help you in your time of need. Contact us at With U Dental for prompt assistance. We are open from Monday to Friday and even Saturday for emergency dental appointments.