For many of us, dental emergencies are the last thing on our minds. However, in the event that the unthinkable happens, you should be prepared. At Paris Mountain Dental, we know that having a plan in the event of a dental emergency can help you limit the damage and get the treatment you need as soon as possible. We’ve put together the following list of three common dental emergencies and what to do to help prepare you and your family.
3 Common Dental Emergencies
1. Toothache
If you experience a toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it. If you notice any food particles between teeth that are causing irritation, gently use floss to remove them.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth
If you have a tooth knocked out, try to keep it moist and visit our office as soon as possible! If it is dirty, rinse it with milk or water, but don’t rub or wipe it. If possible, carefully place the tooth back in the socket without touching the root, or keep the tooth in a glass of milk. In a pinch, you can even place it in between your cheek and gums until you can visit us.
3. Cracked Tooth
If you realize that you’ve chipped or cracked a tooth, try rinsing your mouth with warm water. This will clean your mouth and help protect against infection. If you are experiencing swelling, use a cold compress. Even if a cracked tooth isn’t incredibly painful, the fissure may worsen and lead to further issues, so visit us as soon as possible.
Remember Your Preventive Care
In order to avoid a dental emergency like the ones listed above, make sure you’re practicing good preventive care habits. This includes brushing twice daily, flossing each day, attending biannual dental exams, and protecting your mouth. Wear a mouthguard if you’re participating in contact sports and avoid chewing hard foods like ice and hard candy, which can crack a tooth.
Contact Us ASAP!
No matter what your emergency is, give us a call as soon as you notice signs of trouble. We will work to fit you in to see Dr. Ghimire. If you have any questions for our team about what to do in a dental emergency or you want to schedule your next appointment, call our office today.