The most common dental emergencies include tooth decay, oral infections, and damaged teeth. The best strategies to preserve your dental health are through preventative measures and regular checkups. On the other hand, being prepared for emergencies can help you successfully avoid damage. What kind of dental emergencies occur the most frequently, and how do you treat them? With a fast, proper response and first-aid treatment, you can avoid long-term injury and regain optimum dental health.
1. Toothache
Pain is never a positive sign because it can be a sign of many other health issues, particularly tooth decay. Furthermore, while some toothaches can be treated without the need for emergency treatment, some symptoms, including swelling, necessitate getting professional treatment immediately. Since aspirin and other drugs may cause the affected gums to burn upon touch, they should be avoided. You can also use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek and make an emergency dental center call. After your treatment is complete, your dentist will explain how crucial good dental hygiene is for avoiding cavities, tooth decay, and other more serious dental issues.
2. Chipped or broken teeth
In addition to hurting, a cracked or fractured tooth can ruin your gorgeous smile. Rinse your mouth with warm water, then place a piece of gauze over the spot that is bleeding. Apply a cold compress to your cheek to address swelling and relieve pain. And then head to the dental office. Your dentist will advise you to refrain from sports or other activities that might result in your teeth getting chipped or damaged in the future.
3. Knocked-out tooth
Try picking up your knocked-out tooth by the crown, and be careful not to hurt the root. Only rinse it if it is dirty. Avoid touching and removing any remaining tissue if possible. Your dentist may be able to reinstall the tooth based on the extent of the damage. The likelihood of preserving and reinserting a knocked-out tooth increases the quicker you seek professional help, preferably within an hour. If you are unable to place the tooth back in your mouth, place it in a small cup of milk, water, or salt. This will allow you to preserve the tooth until you get to your dental specialist.
4. Lost filling or crown
The best possible look and function can be returned to previously damaged teeth using dental crowns and fillings. However, as soon as these dental restorations get compromised, you must take care of them to prevent reinfection or additional damage. In the meanwhile, use the following temporary measure until you can get emergency dental care. Try filling the cavity with sugar-free gum; do not attempt to repair the problem yourself to avoid causing additional damage. To have the restoration reapplied or replaced with a new one, you may also bring it to your doctor's office in a zip-top bag.
5. Broken orthodontics
Braces' robust metal wires and brackets are designed to withstand the daily pressure of biting, eating, and speaking. They might still break, stick out, or poke your cheeks or gums. In addition to the hurting, this can delay or even ruin orthodontic everything your straightening treatment has managed to achieve at this point. If this happens, you could try relocating the broken wire to a more convenient location. You should cover the exposed end with orthodontic wax, a little cotton ball, or a piece of gauze if it isn't possible. Avoid cutting the cable, no matter how annoying it is.