Dental emergencies can take many forms, and are usually upsetting. Knowing what actions to take and who to call can give you some peace of mind.
Below, Dr. Jason Keefe of 5 Mile Smiles provides a brief overview of what to do in case you or a member of your family experiences a dental emergency.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth gets knocked out, hold it by its crown and rinse it with water. If possible, hold the tooth in the socket it came from. If this is not possible, keep it in a cup of milk. Rinse the mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the side of the face to minimize swelling. Make an appointment at our office as soon as possible.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
For a cracked or broken tooth, gently rinse the mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the side of the face to minimize swelling. Make an appointment at our office as soon as possible.
Toothache
For a severe toothache, use floss to gently dislodge any food particles or other debris that may be stuck in between the teeth or along the gumline. You can take an over-the-counter pain reliever, but do not apply aspirin directly to the tooth or gums as that could burn the gum tissue. Contact our office if the pain does not dissipate.
Object Stuck In Between the Teeth
Use dental floss to dislodge the item if possible. If regular floss is difficult, try a flossing stick. Do not use a sharp or pointed instrument to remove the object. If you are unable to remove the object, contact our office and request an appointment.
Tips to Avoid a Dental Emergency
- Always wear a mouthguard (or other protective gear) when playing contact or collision sports.
- Do not use your teeth to rip off clothing tags or open bottles, packages or other items.
- Visit our office at least twice a year for check-ups and cleanings.
- Do not chew on hard objects like shells, popcorn kernels, ice or pen caps.
Our team is here for you if you or a member of your family experiences a dental emergency. To get ahold of us, please call 509-326-2621 and we will do our best to get you a same-day appointment so we can put a stop to your pain.
Should the situation necessitate immediate care, you can always go to your local emergency room.
