Common Dental Emergencies and First Aid

Dental emergencies usually happen unexpectedly and can be quite distressing. Remaining calm and administering first aid before visiting a dental clinic in Westlake can make a significant difference in minimizing pain and preventing further damage.

Let’s take a look at some common dental emergencies:

Toothache

Cause: Cavities, gum disease, or dental abscesses.

First Aid

●      Clean your mouth with warm water.

●      Use dental floss to ensure there is no debris or food particles causing discomfort.

●      You can take OTC pain relievers to minimize pain.

●      If the pain continues, see a dentist promptly.

Objects Caught Between Teeth

Cause: Food particles or foreign objects.

First Aid

●      Carefully attempt to remove the object with dental floss. Don’t use sharp objects as they could damage your gums or teeth.

●      Rinse your mouth with warm water.

●      If unable to remove the object, see a dentist for assistance.

Chipped or Broken Tooth

Cause: Accidents, falls, or biting on hard objects.

First Aid

●      Save any broken pieces and rinse them with warm water.

●      Clean your mouth with warm water.

●      Reduce swelling with a cold compress.

●      See a dentist as soon as possible for evaluation and repair.

Lost Dental Filling or Crown

Cause: Wear and tear, decay, or trauma.

First Aid

●      Save the filling or crown if possible.

●      Use dental cement, available at pharmacies, to temporarily reattach the crown.

●      Avoid using regular glue or adhesive.

●      Schedule an appointment with your dentist for proper repair or replacement.

Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsion)

Cause: Trauma or a forceful impact on the face.

First Aid

●      Hold the tooth by the top (crown). Avoid touching its root.

●      Clean the tooth with water. Do not use soap or scrub.

●      Attempt to place the tooth in its socket. Hold it steady with a clean tissue or gauze.

●      If reinsertion isn’t possible, place the tooth in a glass jar with milk or saliva and visit a family dentistry in Westlake immediately.

Abscessed Tooth

Cause: An untreated cavity or dental infection.

First Aid

●      Clean your mouth with a saltwater solution.

●      Use over-the-counter pain relievers to manage pain.

●      Do not apply heat or cold directly on the infected area.

●      Seek prompt dental care, as an abscess requires professional treatment, often involving drainage and antibiotics.

In a dental emergency, it’s essential to contact your dentist as soon as possible for professional guidance and treatment. The first aid measures mentioned here are temporary solutions to alleviate pain and prevent further damage until you can receive proper dental care.

Dental emergencies are painful and stressful. Duhon Family Dentistry prioritizes emergency cases, offering same-day appointments to address your immediate concerns. Search for a dentist that takes Medicaid for adults near me and get connected to experts in the dental field. For more information, call (337) 221-0072.