Last Updated on September 22, 2024
Article about: How to Handle Dental Emergencies.
We have all been in situations where one of our family members or our friend has a dental emergency and we wonder “How do we handle dental emergencies and what do we do when accidents happen?”.
This article addresses these questions in detail.
But first, understand the different types of dental emergencies and accidents.
Dental Emergencies
Here are 5 types of dental emergencies:
Severe Toothache:
Infection, abscess, or cavity can be the reason for severe toothache. If the pain becomes unbearable, that would count as a dental emergency.
Knocked-Out Tooth:
If the tooth comes out of its socket, it could be a sign of severe dental abnormality and must be checked urgently.
Chipped or Broken Tooth:
While chewing or biting, if a tooth breaks or gets chipped, it is a sign of calcium deficiency or weakened tooth enamel. It could also be caused by excessive grinding or tooth injury.
Lost Filling or Crown:
If a crown gets uninstalled or the filling is lost, it could lead to severe toothache and is regarded as a dental emergency.
Abscess or Gum Infection:
Sometimes, the tooth is not a problem but the gums are. Gum infection can cause severe pain and thus becomes a dental emergency.
Dental Accidents
Here are 5 types of dental accidents:
Fractured Jaw:
If you play competitive sports or get into a fight and receive a severe hit to the jaw, you might fracture your jaw. This incident qualifies as a dental accident.
Dislodged Tooth:
A severe blow to the mouth can dislodge a tooth from its socket, requiring immediate dental assistance.
Soft Tissue Injuries:
Accidents can cut or tear the gums, tongue, or cheeks, which must be treated as a dental emergency.
Broken Braces or Wires:
If broken braces or wires are inside the mouth, they can cause discomfort or injury to the soft tissues. This situation also qualifies as a dental accident.
Tooth Intrusion:
Physical trauma to the jaw can force a tooth deeper into the jawbone, requiring immediate treatment as a dental accident.
Now that we understand dental emergencies and dental accidents better, let’s talk about
5 Ways To Handle Dental Emergencies
Rinse With Warm Water:
Rinsing with warm water after a dental issue can help clean the debris, and reduce risk of infection.
Cold Compress:
Applying a cold compress on the cheek can help numb pain, reduce swelling, and prevent further inflammation.
Preserve Teeth:
If you knock out a tooth, preserve it by soaking it in milk until you see the dentist.
Temporary Dental Materials:
If the crown or fillings come out, then it is ok to apply over-the-counter temporary cement or petroleum jelly before you see the dentist.
Stop Bleeding:
In case of a dental accident or emergency, if there is heavy bleeding, apply soft pressure using a clean cloth, until you see the dentist to stop bleeding.
How to Handle Dental Emergencies | Conclusion
In this article, we explored various dental emergencies and accidents and discussed effective ways to handle them before you reach the dental clinic. If you experience any of the mentioned dental issues, contact us. We’re ready to help you address your dental concerns with prompt and expert care.
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