Accidents and injuries happen, often when we least expect it. As dentists, it is our job to do everything possible to help you to preserve the health and appearance of your natural teeth. However, in the event of an emergency, the actions that you take can make the difference between requiring a repair and permanent tooth loss. So, we need your help! By taking the right steps if an accident or injury arises, you can contribute towards saving your tooth and returning the function and beauty of your teeth.
Losing a tooth
One of the most common dental emergencies is sudden tooth loss. This is often a result of an accident or injury, but in some cases, if a tooth is badly decayed it may fall out of its own accord. Whatever the reason for the tooth loss, the most important thing is trying to preserve it. Preserving it correctly will increase the likelihood that it can be put back into place and will heal itself.
To preserve a lost tooth, you need to keep it moist and keep the roots intact. This means handling it as little as possible, and only by the top of the crown to avoid damaging the roots. Pop the tooth into a glass of milk or similar, or if you don’t have anything you can put it in, put it back into the socket it came out of or hold in your cheek until you can get to us.
Cracking a tooth
If you have ever cracked a tooth before you will know it can be a painful experience, and whilst not quite as severe as losing a tooth, will still require emergency dental intervention.
Your tooth is probably bleeding, and so you should rinse it with warm water until the bleeding stops and the water run clear. Once this happens, apply a cold compress to the area of your tooth, which will help to minimize swelling and pain until you can get to us. We will be able to give you stronger pain relief if required, and hopefully, save your tooth using a dental crown.
Other dental emergencies
There are other dental situations that can arise that may require urgent dental attention, either to preserve natural teeth or to alleviate you of any pain. Some of these scenarios include:
– Lost cavity fillings
– Infection or abscess
– Impacted tooth
– Broken oral devices such as orthodontic brace, dentures or bridge
– Severe toothache
Regardless of whether your emergency is a result of an accident, injury or something else, if you are in pain or worried, seeking reassuring, reliable dental treatment will be your immediate priority.