A dental emergency may occur when you least expect it. It could be a toothache that occurs suddenly, a chipped tooth, or a gum injury. Having an idea of what to do can make a big difference. Preparing beforehand will ensure that you remain calm and take the necessary steps before seeking dental emergency services. In this guide, we will take you through the necessary preparations and steps to follow during a dental emergency.
Steps to Prepare for a Dental Emergency
1. Maintain a Dental Emergency Kit
Having a properly stocked dental emergency kit in your home or vehicle can assist you in dealing with unforeseen dental problems. Some of the necessary items to keep in the kit are:
● Gauze pads to control bleeding
● A small container with a lid (to store a knocked-out tooth)
● Painkillers (such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen)
● Cotton balls or swabs
● Dental wax (to protect sharp edges of broken teeth or braces)
● Hydrogen peroxide for cleaning
● An ice pack to help minimize swelling
● Emergency contact details for an urgent dental care clinic
2. Know What to Do in Different Dental Emergencies
Different dental emergencies require specific steps before you reach a dentist. Here’s what to do with some of the most frequent ones:
Knocked-Out Tooth
● Grasp the tooth by the crown (do not touch the root).
● Gently rinse it with water, but do not brush.
● Attempt to put it back in the socket. If this is not possible, place it in milk or a saline solution.
● Get to a dentist within 30 minutes for an optimal opportunity to save the tooth.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
● Rinse your mouth with warm water.
● Use a cold compress to decrease swelling.
● Preserve any pieces that break off if possible.
● Use dental wax to cover up any sharp surfaces.
● Go see an emergency dentist in your area as soon as possible.
Severe Toothache
● Rinse with warm salt water.
● Gently floss to get rid of any debris.
● Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
● Do not place aspirin against the tooth or gums, as it may cause irritation.
● See an urgent care dental clinic if the pain continues.
Lost Filling or Crown
● If a crown comes off, attempt to cement it back with dental adhesive.
● If a filling is lost, fill the cavity with sugarless gum or dental wax temporarily.
● Make an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible.
Abscess or Infection
● Be aware of swelling, pus, or pain near a tooth or gum.
● Rinse with salt water several times daily.
● Get immediate dental attention since infections progress and can become fatal.
3. Keep Your Dentist’s Number Handy
You should know the number of emergency dentists in your locality even before an emergency. Store their contact number in your phonebook and have a written note in your first-aid box. If you also travel frequently, look up nearby urgent dental care facilities in your travel destination.
4. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Dental emergencies can be prevented by starting with good oral hygiene. Brushing daily, flossing every day, and regular check-ups with your dentist will decrease the likelihood of unforeseen dental problems.
5. Acquire Basic First Aid for Dental Emergencies
Learning basic first aid for dental emergencies will enable you to control pain and avoid further injury until you see an emergency dentist near you. It might be worth learning a basic first-aid course or consulting online about emergency dental care procedures.
6. Wear Protective Gear
When you play sports that involve contact or grinding your teeth while you sleep, you can prevent knocked-out or chipped teeth by wearing a mouthguard. A mouthguard made by your dentist is more effective than an over-the-counter guard.
Be Prepared for Dental Emergencies
A dental emergency is stressful, but preparation can make a big difference. By having a dental emergency kit, being aware of what to do in various situations, and practicing good oral hygiene, you can manage unexpected dental problems better.
Urgent Assistance at Somba Ké Family Dental
In case you ever need urgent attention, Somba Ké Family Dental is always at your service. Our professional team offers guaranteed dental emergency care in our clinic. If you are searching for a reliable dentist in Yellowknife, call us today for timely and professional attention. Your oral health matters to us!