Dental emergencies often include pain. When a person is in pain, it can be difficult for them to think clearly or take action to get help. Dental emergencies can arise without warning. When they happen, individuals need to seek immediate dental care services. With this guide, individuals will learn what they should and should not do in the case of a dental emergency.
Do Immediately Stop Any Bleeding
One of the first things a person needs to do in the event of a dental emergency is to stop any bleeding right away. While a small amount of blood is nothing to be terribly worried over, massive bleeding needs to be handled right away. Those looking for dental services should tell the dentist they are having trouble with bleeding so the proper treatment can be given.
It is important to apply pressure using a clean, damp washcloth. Apply firm and direct pressure to the area. Individuals should lean forward instead of back so the blood does not start to run down their throat. It is important individuals do not stand up quickly or lie down, since fainting may occur.
Don’t Panic!
Although it can be difficult not to panic, it is really important to keep calm. Panic will only cause the heart to pump faster, which could lead to increased bleeding and pain. Remaining calm will allow a person to take the necessary steps to get the dental care they need.
If someone is nearby, it is important for individuals to ask for help and support. When caring for a child with a dental emergency, it is important the adult keeps the child calm and encourages them to breathe deeply and avoid any distress.
Do Try to Find Any Knocked Out Teeth or Broken Pieces
If a tooth is damaged or knocked out, it is important to find the pieces if at all possible. The dentist may be able to reseat a knocked-out tooth as long as the roots are intact. Dentists can also repair chipped teeth by reattaching the broken piece with dental bonding material.
When these pieces are found, it is important to put them in a cup of milk or cool water and take them to the dentist right away. Repairs work best when they are done as soon as possible and when there is a clean break to the tooth.
Don’t Worry About Baby Teeth
A lot of parents panic when their child’s baby tooth is knocked out or damaged, but there is no reason for alarm. There is also no reason to go on a scavenger hunt to find a knocked-out baby tooth or any pieces. Dentists do not reattach or repair baby teeth.
If the child is near the age where the tooth would fall out on its own, there is no need for treatment. Children that are younger will likely have a spacer put in place to ensure the teeth do not shift until the adult tooth grows in the space.
Before worrying about taking the child to the dentist, have them rinse with cool water. Clean the area and use a cold compress to control any swelling and irritation. Make sure there are no additional injuries that would require a dental visit.
Do Take Toothache Pain Seriously
A toothache is not something that should be ignored. Ignoring tooth pain will not make it go away and could cause it to worsen. The first thing a person should do when their tooth starts hurting is to floss. Sometimes, sudden tooth pain is brought on by food that is lodged around the tooth.
If flossing does not help to alleviate the pain, get to the dentist right away. The dentist will examine the tooth and take X-rays. Tooth pain is typically caused by tooth decay or infection. Both can be treated by the dentist so relief can be experienced.
Don’t Hesitate to Get Immediate Medical Attention at the Emergency Room
If the dentist is not available, it is sometimes important to get immediate medical attention. Significant trauma to the face or signs of severe infection must be handled immediately. If there is a lot of blood loss, the hospital is the best place to go because they are equipped to handle such severe trauma and can stop the bleeding quickly. Once the emergency situation has been brought under control by the emergency room personnel, individuals should schedule a dental appointment.
Do Take Measures to Avoid Dental Emergencies
Individuals should take measures to avoid dental emergencies by protecting their teeth while playing contact sports and maintaining good oral health. Seeing the dentist a couple of times a year for checkups and cleanings is also essential for keeping a healthy and beautiful smile.
Don’t Ever Use Aspirin For Tooth Pain
When dental pain comes on suddenly and severely, people will often do just about anything to get relief. Although it is okay to take Tylenol, a person should never reach for a bottle of aspirin. Aspirin can make bleeding increase because it temporarily thins the blood. Even if a person is not experiencing bleeding, it is still wise for them to avoid aspirin because invasive treatments at the dentist may be required, and taking aspirin makes these procedures more dangerous.
Keep Calm and See the Dentist
It can be frightening to deal with a dental emergency. There is so much unknown, and it can be difficult to know what steps to take. The dos and don’ts above are important to remember when a serious dental issue strikes.
Staying calm and getting any bleeding under control is essential. If the injury is severe, go straight to the emergency room. Call the dentist right away so they can give you instructions to take care of the problem until you can come in for emergency dental care treatment.
Many dental offices offer emergency appointments for true dental emergencies. Call right away, and you may be able to get in to see the dentist on the same day. Prompt treatment is essential for any dental emergency and will help to prevent further injury while also stopping the pain.
