We all know that accidents happen, especially when it comes to our teeth. If you are unlucky enough to experience a dental emergency, it is important to take action as soon as possible. This blog post will discuss what you should do if you have a dental emergency within 24 hours and provide tips on preventing dental emergencies from happening in the first place!
1) Evaluate the severity of your dental emergency:
As a rule of thumb, if you are in severe pain or it is difficult to open and close your mouth, this usually indicates that you need urgent help. Additionally, any broken, chipped, or cracked teeth should be addressed immediately. Dental emergencies can also include:
- lost fillings
- crowns
- bridges
- bleeding from the gums
- and abscesses
- impacted teeth, which causes swelling;
- bleeding from the gums;
In addition, if you have difficulty breathing, dizziness or a high fever, seek medical attention immediately.
2) Talk to your dentist:
If you are experiencing a dental emergency and it is during normal business hours, contact your dentist as soon as possible. If they are closed, see if they provide an after-hours number that you can call for assistance. Be sure to explain the details of your problem; for instance, if it’s same-day dental crowns or perhaps a severe abscess, notify them immediately so that the dentist can assess how urgent your situation is and schedule an appointment accordingly. It is important to note that most dentists will require payment upfront before treating any emergencies.
3) Pain relief measures:
Whilst waiting to see a dentist, there are some pain relief measures that you can take. Use an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen; rinse your mouth with salt water; apply a cold compress and avoid hot foods and drinks. You can use dental wax or cotton to protect any exposed tooth surfaces and help reduce the pain. In addition, if you have a knocked-out tooth, rinse it gently and try to place the tooth back in its original socket. If this is not possible, store the tooth in a sealed container filled with milk or saliva until you see your dentist.
4) Preventative measures:
The best way to avoid dental emergencies is to practise good oral hygiene on a regular basis. This means brushing twice daily, flossing once daily, using good-quality toothpaste and visiting the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Additionally, avoiding hard candies and chewy sweets can reduce the risk of broken teeth, and contacting a dentist at soonest when you suspect something to be wrong, can avoid those last minute emergencies.
In conclusion, dental emergencies can be stressful and painful situations that require immediate attention from a qualified dentist. It is important to take steps such as consulting with a professional, using pain relief measures and practising preventative measures in order to handle a dental emergency within 24 hours. In addition, making sure you practise good oral hygiene on a regular basis can help to avoid these situations altogether!
