Dental emergencies never give you any warning and can leave you wondering what to do next. Whether it is a severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or any other dental accident, the ordeal can be intimidating. But knowing what to do before you get to an emergency dentist in Walnut Creek can help minimize the damage and give you a sense of control.
This blog will guide you through achievable, at-home first aid steps you can follow until you can visit a professional.
1. Dealing with a Knocked-Out Tooth
Losing a tooth is scary, but immediate intervention can make a huge difference. Here’s what you can do right after the accident:
- Deal with the tooth carefully: Avoid the root to prevent any damage.
- Rinse with water: Rinse the tooth with clean water to remove dirt. Do not scrub or remove tissue that is attached.
- Reposition the tooth: If possible, put the tooth back into its socket. Bite on a clean cloth to hold it in position. If you cannot do this, put the tooth in a small container in milk or saline.
Get to the dentist immediately: Time is critical, so contact your Walnut Creek emergency dentist as soon as possible. The sooner you get to your dentist, the more likely the tooth can be saved.
2. Toothache Relief
A pounding toothache can be agonizing, especially when it ambushes you in the middle of the day. While it’s always best to see a dentist for the right diagnosis, here is what you can do to ease the pain at home:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Take pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to ease pain and swelling.
- Cold compress: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek nearest to the sore tooth to numb the ache.
- Saltwater rinse: A saltwater rinse can wash the area, reduce swelling, and soothe irritation. Simply mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it through the mouth.
- Avoid pressure: Refrain from chewing on the affected side so as not to further irritate the tooth.
3. Handling a Broken or Chipped Tooth
A broken tooth can be painful and upsetting, but don’t panic. Do the following until you can see the dentist:
Rinse the mouth: Rinse the area gently with warm water to remove any debris.
- Control bleeding: If there is bleeding due to the broken tooth, apply gentle pressure using a clean gauze or cloth until the bleeding stops.
- Preserve the broken piece: If you have the broken piece of the tooth, place it in a clean container. Your dentist may be able to reattach it or use it for a restoration.
- Cold compress: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling and pain.
Make sure to see your dentist as soon as possible to prevent infection and get the tooth properly restored.
4. Loose Filling or Crown
A lost filling or crown can leave your tooth vulnerable to further damage. Here’s how to handle this situation:
- Temporary remedy: If the filling or crown has fallen out, you can temporarily keep it in place with over-the-counter dental cement (available at most pharmacies).
- Pain relief: Use a painkiller to relieve pain and avoid chewing on the affected tooth.
- Get to the dentist as soon as possible: While a temporary remedy will give some relief, it is best to have the dental work replaced as soon as possible to avoid further issues.
5. Treating Gum Pain or Swelling
Gum pain or swelling can be triggered by many issues, including a tooth abscess, infection, or irritation caused by food particles. To treat this at home:
- Ice pack: Use an ice pack on the outside of the mouth to numb the pain and decrease swelling.
- Avoid spicy or hard food: Eat soft, non-spicy food that won’t further irritate your gums.
If the swelling does not go away or gets worse, it’s necessary to visit an emergency dentist as soon as possible to examine for infections that might need treatment.
Dental emergencies can happen to anyone, but with a little preparation, you can handle the situation until professional help is sought. No matter if you are suffering from a lost tooth, toothache, or pain in the gums, the most crucial thing is to act efficiently and quickly. Contact WC Aesthetic Dentistry today to schedule your visit and get the professional help you deserve.
