Dental emergencies always seem to happen at the most inconvenient times and in the most inconvenient. No matter when and where they happen it is important to keep a cool head and remember these 5 quick tips and call Cascade Endodontics when experiencing a dental crises.
Toothaches: When experiencing severe toothache rinse your mouth with warm water and if swollen apply cold compress to outside of mouth. While it is ok to take over-the-counter pain medication never apply any against the gums or near the aching tooth. This could burn the gum tissue.
Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Save and rinse any pieces that have broken off. Rinse mouth with warm water and apply cold compress to alleviate swelling. If bleeding apply gauze until bleeding is subsided.
Knocked Out Tooth: Gently handle the tooth by the crown being carful to not disrupt the root of the missing tooth. If possible rinse tooth and put back in place. Never force to tooth into place. You may also hold in your mouth until you reach your dentist. If this is not possible place tooth in a cup of milk or water with a pinch of table salt. Saving a knocked out tooth has the highest chance if seen within 1 hour so act quickly but be careful to handle to tooth properly.
Partially Dislodged Tooth: Apply cold compress to the outside of your mouth. Take over-the-counter pain relief and see your dentist as soon as possible.
Abscess: Rinse your mouth with a mild salt water solution (1/2 teaspoon of table salt per 8 oz of water). Rinse several times a day until you can see your doctor. It is important to get in as soon as possible.
If you experience any of the above dental disasters, stay calm and call Dr. Jon Jenson as soon as possible. These tips can be very useful in easing discomfort but it is important to always seek professional help as soon as possible.