Common Dental Emergencies and How to Handle Them

Common Dental Emergencies and How to Handle Them

November 1, 2023

Dental emergencies can be incredibly unsettling. A sudden toothache or injury can disrupt your daily life and leave you searching for immediate solutions. Fortunately, knowing how to handle common dental emergencies can provide some relief while you seek professional care. In this guide, we’ll explore common dental emergencies and share tips on what to do when they strike.

Toothache

The experience of toothaches can vary from mild discomfort to unbearable pain. Dental cavities, gum infections, or teeth grinding often cause them. To manage a toothache, gently rinse your mouth with warm water to remove debris. Use dental floss to ensure nothing is trapped between your teeth, as this can sometimes be the source of the pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen may help temporarily, but it’s essential to consult with an emergency dentist near you for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Cracked or Chipped Tooth

Cracking or chipping a tooth can happen due to various reasons, including trauma or biting on hard objects. If this happens, use warm water to cleanse the affected area within your mouth. If you can find broken tooth fragments, save them, as a dentist might reattach them. Reach out promptly to an urgent dental care provider in Houston, TX, for assessment and intervention. Neglecting a cracked tooth may result in infections or exacerbated damage.

Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth, or avulsed tooth, is a severe dental emergency. Handle the tooth by the crown (the top part) and avoid touching the root. Rinse it with water to remove dirt, but don’t scrub or remove any attached tissue. Try to move the tooth back into its socket, but don’t force it. If reinsertion isn’t successful, keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk or a saline solution. Seek immediate dental care, as the chances of saving the tooth decrease significantly with time.

Loose Tooth

Trauma or gum disease can cause a tooth to become loose. To reduce swelling, place a cold compress on the outside of your mouth. Take over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary and contact an emergency dentist in Houston, TX as soon as possible. Prompt attention may help stabilize the tooth or prevent it from falling out.

Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth is a highly painful and swollen condition due to a severe infection. Consider gargling your mouth with a gentle saltwater mixture to alleviate the discomfort. However, this is not a substitute for professional treatment. Reach out to the dental professional in 77006 without delay since neglecting abscesses can escalate into severe health complications.

Lost Dental Filling or Crown

Losing a filling or crown can expose sensitive tooth structures. As a temporary measure, you can use dental wax or sugarless gum to cover the affected area. However, scheduling an appointment with your dentist in Houston, TX for a permanent fix is crucial. It is important to seek treatment promptly, as delaying it can result in additional damage or decay.

Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums may serve as an indication of gum disease, a condition that should not be overlooked. Continue your regular oral hygiene routine, but gently brush and floss. Make an appointment with a dentist to address the underlying cause of the bleeding and receive appropriate treatment.

Objects Stuck Between Teeth

Dental floss is your best tool to remove it gently if you have something stuck between your teeth. Never use sharp objects or excessive force, which can damage your gums or teeth. If you can’t remove the object yourself, seek dental help promptly.

Tongue or Lip Bites

Accidental bites to the tongue or lip can cause bleeding and discomfort. To control bleeding, place a clean cloth or gauze on the affected area. Use a cold compress to reduce swelling. If the bleeding doesn’t stop or there is severe injury, consider seeking medical attention.

Orthodontic Emergencies

If you have braces or other orthodontic appliances and experience a problem, such as a broken wire or bracket, use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges temporarily. Contact your orthodontist for guidance and to schedule a repair appointment.

Finding an Emergency Dentist Near You

Experiencing dental emergencies can be a source of stress and anxiety., but knowing how to respond can make all the difference. If you need an emergency dentist in Houston, look no further than Polish Dentistry. Our experienced team is ready to provide immediate care for all dental emergencies.

Call Now Book Now
Font Resize
Contrast
Click to listen highlighted text!