Dentists: Do I Need to See One Right Away?

A dental emergency is just like another injury, but it involves the teeth and gums. It can be a pretty traumatic experience when something goes wrong with your teeth, after all the mouth and teeth are responsible for so much, from eating to speaking. This is when dentists come in handy! So, when something unexpected happens it is best to call your dentist immediately. Ignoring such a problem can increase the risk of permanent damage or a serious infection.

There are many common emergencies, from major to minor it is good to know what steps to take until you can get to your dentist. The way that you handle the situation can help or cause further damage. So it is best to know what to do. For instance, if you have just broken or chipped a tooth, go ahead a save any pieces. Dentists will know what to do with them. Then rinse the mouth and the broken pieces using warm water. If you are experiencing bleeding, then apply a piece of gauze to the affected area until the bleeding stops.

Use a cold compress on the outside of the mouth. Another all too common problem is a toothache. The best steps to take are rinsing, flossing, and then applying a cold compress. Some people have the misconception of putting a painkiller directly on the gum near the tooth. But, that should not be done as it can burn the gum tissue. With some of these more minor emergencies you can call your dental office and they can guide you through the steps to take in order to relive pain temporarily until you can get an appointment. Dentists have heard and seen it all, and they'll give you the best advice.

Some emergencies are much more extensive, and will need prompt attention. Like, for example, a knocked out tooth. If you retrieve the tooth, holding it by its crown, gently rinse it with water. Do not scrub or remove any attached tissue fragments. And, if possible try to put the tooth back in its place. Of course, make sure it is facing the right way. but, never force it into the socket.

If you are unsuccessful reinserting it into the socket, then put the tooth in a small container of milk, or a cup of water with a pinch of salt until you can get to a dentist office. Knocked out teeth have the highest chance of being solved if it returned to its socket within one hour. Some major dental emergencies, need immediate attention. When this is the case, call your office at once to see if they can fit you in right away.

If you are experiencing oral pain, even when minor, it can be indicative of a severe underlying problem that could worsen with time. It is critical to contact a dentist as soon as possible for a professional evaluation to minimize damage to the teeth, gums, and supporting bone. Sometimes short-term action can be taken to relieve oral pain, but it is always best to get to the dentist as soon as you can.