One thing’s for sure dental emergencies are unpredictable. It can be a severe gum inflammation, a tooth knocked that just fell out for no apparent reason or a simple backache radiating from the tooth. Either way, it is very important to be aware of the necessary steps so that the lost tooth can be reattached rather than lost forever. Aimed at guiding the laymen, I have prepared this review in the light of my own experience of treating acute dental conditions, as well as practicing general dentistry in DrGobran’s office.
Understanding Dental Emergencies
A dental emergency is defined as any condition which when not treated by a dentist expediently would lead to loss of a tooth or health complications. Understanding what to classify as an emergency is very important. Common emergencies include:
- Severe toothaches
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Lost fillings or crowns
- Abscesses and infections
- Personal Experience
There was a time that I can consider as a dental emergency when I damaged a part of my incisor whilst getting something in my mouth. It was painful and somewhat distressing to me as I didn’t know what to do. Thankfully, I did come across such information about dental emergencies previously so I was able to keep calm and get the help I needed. This is what I gained from that situation and the consultation that I had with DrGobran.
What to do in case of a Dental Emergency
1. Stay calm and examine the circumstances closely
Whether it is a chipped tooth, falling off or any other destructive injury, the first step in any dental emergency is staying still and getting calm. Those who have panic disease can give more distress than what is necessary at that particular stage of dental emergencies. Gradually try to as much important information as has been done, as it is deliberate to empathize:
Do you feel any bleeding? If it is so, you should apply a clean piece of cloth to the wound in order to not have bleeding.
What is the level of pain you feel? If the pain is beyond reach and you feel like it is unbearable, it will be recorded so that it can be revisited by the dentist.
Is there a tooth that we can say is knocked off? If yes this is one of those times when you have to have speedy measures.
2. When a Tooth has been Knocked Out
When a tooth has been knocked out, there are some precautions that should be taken rapidly. Here are ways I found out through both literature and experience:
- Find the Lost Tooth: Lift it only by the crown and do not touch its root.
- Clean condensed water: If the tooth is easily removable and fans eyes above, wash gently with tepid water. Do not wipe or wash off any remaining flesh that sits on the tooth.
- Keeping the Tooth: Other things, placing the tooth into a bowl of milk or saline would work magic. If the tooth can be placed back into its socket, it is worth trying to do so and then holding it with a piece of clean cloth. This is known to help increase potentially saving the tooth.
- Contact DrGobran Right Away: You don’t have much time; therefore, you should call the doctor as well as DrGobran or any other dental emergency clinic around you.
3. How to Deal with Excruciating Tooth Pain
No one wants to and no one can even think of constant tooth pain. This is what I do when I experience unbearable pain in my teeth and want to wait till I visit a dentist.
- Use Warm Salt Water: This is helpful in reducing pain and cleaning the area too.
- Buy Some Pain Killers: Self-help medications such as ibuprofen may help in alleviating the pain temporarily.
- Avoid Some Foods: Do not eat any excessively hot, cold or sugary foods that will worsen the pain.
- Visit DrGobran: Waiting too long will make you have to come back because the problem will still be there.
4. Fractured or Cracked Teeth
A person who has a distorted or a chipped tooth often goes through uneasiness accompanied by distressing. Here’s what to do with it:
Collect All the Broken Pieces: If the pieces break, please keep them. Your dentist may be able to reattach them at times.
Swish with Water: Combat the tendency to be lazy and wash your mouth with clean water.
Use Ice Pack externally: This will lessen the swelling and also help ease the pain.
Visit DrGobran for Treatment: Waiting will increase the likelihood of more damage and worsen the cosmetic appearance.
Fillings or Crowns that are Lost
In the case of losing an inlay or crown, the feeling can be awkward but one can overcome the situation:
Keep the Area Clean: Use warm water and salt to rinse out the mouth in order to keep the area clean.
Purchase Regular Dental Cement: When a crown or other dental prosthetic is lost, dental cement can help you to keep it in place as a temporary method until you visit a dental clinic.
Visit DrGobran: Book an appointment to replace the filling or the crown in order to prevent the progression of the cavity or further complications.
Abscesses and Infections
An abscessed tooth would generally hurt, and the affected area would be swollen. These are the tips that I gathered about this kind of thing:
- Rinse with salt water: This will help reduce any swelling you may have and will help clean the particular area.
- Take antibiotics if prescribed: These medications should be taken exactly as directed by your dentist.
- Take Help of DrGobran Immediately: Since an infection can spread like wildfire, one has to be dealt with as quickly.
When to Seek Emergency Dental Care Knowing when to seek emergency care can save your tooth or even your life. If you experience any of the following, contact DrGobran immediately:
• Severe pain that requires narcotics as over-the-counter medications are ineffective
• Painful lump on your gums or facial area
• High temperature or an unpleasant sided sensation (meaning it is most likely infected)
• Avulsed teeth or temporally dislodged teeth resulting from an impact
My Experience with Seeking Help
For instance, when I had a dental emergency, I appreciated the necessity of having a reliable dentist’s number handy. I called DrGobran, and fortunately, I received treatment that got my tooth saved. Having a go-to dental professional would stress relief when emergencies arise and would guarantee optimal patient care.
Prevention Tips for Dental Emergencies
Although there is a need to know how best to act in the instance of a dental emergency, knowing what to avoid is just as crucial. Below are some tips that have worked for me in taking care of my mouth and avoiding dental emergencies:
- Regular Dental Checkups: Scheduling an appointment with DrGobran for check up visits on the areas of concern can help to enable such concerns in the oral cavity to be addressed timely.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Daily brushing and flossing are essential to curbing cavities and gum diseases.
- Use a Mouthguard: Anyone playing contact sports should take into consideration the use of a mouthguard which can offer protection.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Sturdy food items such as hard candies, nuts, and ice should be consumed with caution as they can cause tooth chipping.
I’m sure many of you have found yourselves at the dentist’s office for an emergency treatment. Dental emergencies can be scary but knowing how to manage them is crucial. Whether it’s an accidental fracture of a front tooth or some excruciating toothache, making sure you know what to do can aid in preserving your oral health and quite possibly, your smile.
In case you ever get into a situation of dental emergency, DrGobran is the one I will recommend you to call as I have done in the past. I know, to be overwhelmed is because of their professionalism as well as their commitment to their patients. For all of the above, being knowledgeable as well as being ready are prerequisites for proper dental management of emergencies.
