Common Dental Emergencies
In our day to day lives, we are not often thinking about common dental emergencies. We never expect such an accident to happen! These factors can contribute to panic when an emergency in our mouth happens, perhaps worsening the situation.
As you can see, it is important to be prepared, at least mentally, for what you would do. The following are 3 common dental emergencies with what action to take.
Types of Dental Emergencies
- Broken Tooth: A trip, hard candy, and teeth grinding. These are some things that may cause a broken tooth. If you realize your tooth is broken, collect any fragments of the tooth that you can find to bring with you to the dentist. Cleanse the area with warm water and make an emergency appointment with the dentist.
- Loss of Permanent Tooth: When a permanent tooth is lost, you need to take fast action. First, find the tooth, clean away any debris from the tooth and mouth if necessary. Place the tooth back in the socket or against the inside of your cheek. If you cannot do either of these, place the tooth in milk. All of these things help to preserve the tooth in order for it to be properly restored. Make an emergency appointment at the dentist!
- Toothache: Toothaches can be debilitating. Therefore, it is very important to get into the dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, it can help to gently swish with warm saltwater and put a cold compress on the outside of your mouth if there is swelling.
Prevent if Possible
Of course there are other common dental emergencies that we may face. However, the main thing to remember is to keep the area clean and call get into the dentist as soon as possible. Dr. David Harris Dental wants to remind you that prevention is the best antidote to emergencies. Keep up with good oral hygiene to strengthen your teeth and gums. Also wear a mouth guard when playing high contact sports.